The Role of Emotional Regulation, Self-efficacy of Pain and Perception of Disease in Predicting the Negative Mood of Women With Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women around the world that from the very beginning of diagnosis can cause fear, despair and psychological harm, and challenge all aspects of life (including physical, psychological, social). The aim of this study was determination of the role of emotional regulation, pain - efficacy and disease perception in predicting the negative mood of women with breast cancer.

Methods and Materials: 

The research design was descriptive correlational and the statistical population of the study included all women with breast cancer referring to Isfahan health centers in spring of 2018. Accordingly, 160 women with breast cancer were selected by available sampling method, and based on the criteria for entry and exit. Data collection tools consisted of Gross and Johnchr('39')s emotion regulation questionnaires (2003), Nicholas pain (1995) self-efficacy inventory, Brodbent & et.al (2006) illness perception questionnaire, Lovibond, and Lovibondchr('39')s negative mood scale (1995). To analyze the data, Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression were used.

The results showed that the perception of the disease (β= 0/46, p= 0/001), self-efficacy of pain (β= 0/15, p= 0/021), negatively and meaningfully and the suppression strategy (β= 0/21, p= 0/001) positive and meaningful can predict changes related to the negative mood of women with breast cancer.

It is concluded that the type of emotion regulation strategy, the degree of self-efficacy of pain and the level of perception of the disease have a significant effect on mood disorders in women with breast cancer;  therefore, it can be understood by a deeper understanding of psychological characteristics and beliefs The disease in women with breast cancer takes steps to increase their mental health and well-being with new conditions.