Facilitation of Self-Transcendence in a Breast Cancer Support Group: II

A pilot study tested a breast cancer support group designed to foster self-transcendence—a perspective that helps people expand their boundaries and find meaning. Sixteen women with recently diagnosed breast cancer attended weekly 90-minute sessions for eight weeks. Scores on self-transcendence and well-being increased from baseline, but only functional performance status, mood state, and satisfaction with life showed statistically significant improvements. An association was observed between self-transcendence and emotional well-being. The findings provide preliminary support for theory-driven activities in support groups and highlight the importance of networking and follow-up for recruitment and retention.

Study at a glance

Abstract

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To examine the feasibility and patterns of effectiveness of a breast cancer support group intervention specifically designed to facilitate self-transcendence views and perspectives that would enhance emotional and physical well-being. DESIGN: Pre-experimental design pilot intervention study with a quantitative approach to data analysis. SETTING: Survivor-established breast cancer resource center in Austin, TX. SAMPLE: Women with recently diagnosed breast cancer (N = 16) participating in 90-minute support group sessions that met weekly for eight weeks. METHODS: Theory-driven support group intervention facilitated by an oncology clinical nurse specialist, a psychotherapist, and a breast cancer survivor. Activities planned for individual sessions were based on self-transcendence theory, cancer support group literature, and the facilitators' extensive previous support group experience. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES: Self-transcendence, emotional well-being, physical well-being. FINDINGS: Good networking, coordination, and follow-up were essential for participant recruitment and retention throughout the intervention period. Although specific theory-driven activities were planned for group sessions, facilitators maintained flexibility in meeting immediate concerns of the participants. Relationships among participants' scores on study variables indicated an association between self-transcendence and emotional well-being. Scores on self-transcendence and well-being variables at the end of the intervention increased from baseline, but only functional performance status, mood state, and satisfaction with life reached statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: The pilot study was invaluable in providing direction for the conduct of future experimental studies. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Provides preliminary support for the use of theory-driven activities for promotion of self-transcendence views and behaviors within a cancer support group setting.