Predicting the status of the immune system based on personality type D mediated by defense mechanisms in patients with breast cancer

Breast cancer, as the most common cancer, is the cause of death of millions of people around the world. Given that psychological status can be effective in responding to treatment by affecting the immune system, the aim of this study was to present a model for predicting the status of the immune system through personality type D mediated by defense mechanisms in patients with breast cancer.

The statistical population of the present study included all women with breast cancer in Tehran and Gilan in 1398, from which 250 were selected by purposive sampling. Data were collected using a Type D personality, Questionnaire Defense Style Questionnaire and Warning Signs of Immunodeficiency. Pearson correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data using AMOS and SPSS software version 22.

The results showed that there was a significant and direct correlation between the status of the immune system and the neurotic defense mechanism, undeveloped defense mechanism and personality type D and a significant and inverse correlation between the status of the immune system and the developed defense mechanism. Also, defense mechanisms played a mediating role in the relationship between personality type D and immune system status in breast cancer patients.

Accordingly, in patients with breast cancer, the status of the immune system can be predicted through defense mechanisms and personality type D. Therefore, therapists and health professionals can help these people overcome their disease by designing interventions based on modifying defense mechanisms and personality type D. Thus, the more an individual uses the immature defense mechanism, the weaker the immune system is, and the use of the developed defense mechanism is associated with a stronger immune system. Based on the findings, it can be said that designing psychological interventions based on modifying defense mechanisms and changing personality type D, can help a patient with breast cancer to manage and treat the disease.