'I–We' boundary fluctuations in couple adjustment to rectal cancer and life with a permanent colostomy. Issue 1 (8th March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McCarthy, Molly; Fergus, Karen; Miller, Debbie
• Is Part Of: Health psychology open. Volume 3:Issue 1(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-03-08
• Subjects: cancer -- coping -- family -- health psychology -- qualitative methods -- quality of life; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; Medicine and psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/2055102916633582
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2055-1029

Abstract

This study investigates couples' adjustment to rectal cancer and a colostomy using the 'Classification System of Couple Adjustment to Cancer', a framework delineating fluctuations in couples' sense of 'I' and 'We' in response to cancer. Nine couples affected by rectal cancer and adjusting to life with a colostomy were interviewed. A theoretical thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted; nearly all 'I–We' shifts of the Classification System of Couple Adjustment to Cancer were observed – often in unique ways in response to rectal cancer–specific challenges – and one new shift was described. The results provide a novel and experientially grounded means of conceptualizing complex dyadic coping processes.