Comparison of Negative Orientation of Adolescent Girls with Mothers with and Without Breast Cancer Toward the Problem, Hopelessness and Perceived Stress

The family relationships of parents suffering from cancer change following the onset of physical problems, the experience of depression and the lack of emotional access. This study aimed to compare the negative orientation of adolescent girls with mothers with and without breast cancer toward the problem, hopelessness and perceived stress.

This was a cross-sectional study. The statistical population was all the adolescent girls 13-18 years old referring to the oncology ward of Golestan Teaching Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran during a 6-month period accompanying their mothers suffering from breast cancer. The girls for the group with mothers with cancer (n=57, mean age 16.31 ±4.65 years) and the group with mothers without cancer (n=57, mean age 16.02  ±3.27 years) were selected using convenient and multistage sampling, respectively. Both groups completed the Robichuad and Dogus negative orientation to problem questionnaire, Beck Hopelessness Scale and Chohen Pecieved Stress Scale.  Data were analyzed using the one-way and multivariate analysis of variance (with a p<0.05 to show statistical significance) with the software SPSS-22.

There were significant differences between the two groups as regards the variables of negative orientation toward the problem and hopelessness (F= 4.21; p<0.05), while no significant difference was found between them as regards perceived stress (F= 0.015 P= 0.90).

The children of cancer patients have psychological problems and, therefore, need guidance and support. Improvements in the psychological conditions of children will improve their relationship with their mothers, who will then feel more relieved.