:: Volume 11, Issue 1 (6-2026) ::
IHJ 2026, 11(1): 26-40 Back to browse issues page
Psychological experiences of women with cancer with an emphasize on expectations, needs, and challenges: A phenomenological study
Leila Barjasteh , Mohammad Hossein Fallah , Najmeh Sedrpoushan * , Abolghasem Asimozneb
Department of Psychology and Counseling, Ya.C., Islamic Azad University, Yazd, Iran , n.sedrpoushan@iau.ac.ir
Abstract:   (912 Views)
Cancer has long been recognized as a distressing, debilitating, and life-threatening disease, exerting profound negative effects on patients and their families across various societies. This qualitative study explores the psychological experiences of cancer patients, with a special focus on their expectations, needs, challenges, and opportunities in Kerman.
Materials and methods: In the present study, the data were obtained through a qualitative research approach, involving in-depth interviews with 24 women diagnosed with cancer, aged 30 to 60 years in Kerman from October 2023 to September 2024, and participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was carried out using semi-structured in-depth interviews, continuing until theoretical saturation was reached. For data analysis, thematic analysis was employed as the chosen research method.
Findings: The results were categorized into five main themes: self-related experiences, family and social relationships, interactions with medical staff and hospital treatment processes, socio-economic concerns, and religious-spiritual issues. Additionally, 34 sub-themes emerged within these categories.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that understanding the psychological experiences of cancer patients can help identify and validate their emotions and concerns, addressing their needs to prevent the progression of the disease. The interconnected or mediating factors within each component can contribute to greater reassurance and emotional relief, enhancing patients' ability to manage their experiences, mitigate negative emotions, and achieve acceptance.
Keywords: Psychological experiences, Women, Cancer, Phenomenological
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Type of Study: Research | Subject: Special
Received: 2025/08/7 | Accepted: 2026/04/6 | Published: 2026/04/22


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Volume 11, Issue 1 (6-2026) Back to browse issues page