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Theory, Measurement, and Controversy in Positive Psychology, Health Psychology, and Cancer: Basics and Next Steps

  • Original Article
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Annals of Behavioral Medicine

Abstract

The aims of this commentary are two-fold: First, to amplify some of the points that Aspinwall, Tedeschi, Coyne, Tennen, and Ranchor have raised, noting the importance of a return to basics. Second, to posit next steps in theory development and methods at the intersection of health psychology, positive psychology, and cancer. Additional theory development, more applications of large prospective studies, and instrument refinements are warranted to understand the effects of positive constructs on health outcomes and adaptation to cancer. This area of research would be strengthened by studies that incorporate survival, health-related quality of life, and well-being outcome measures, using cancer registries and/or multiple raters. More observational studies are necessary. Attention to social justice questions is suggested in future studies at the intersection of these fields.

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Acknowledgments

I thank Allen Sherman and Suzanne Miller for helpful comments on an earlier version of this article; I have incorporated many of their excellent suggestions into the text.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Columbia University, 525 West 120th Street, Mailbox 239, New York, NY, 10027, USA

    Sherri Sheinfeld Gorin Ph.D.

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Correspondence to Sherri Sheinfeld Gorin Ph.D..

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Gorin, S.S. Theory, Measurement, and Controversy in Positive Psychology, Health Psychology, and Cancer: Basics and Next Steps. ann. behav. med. 39, 43–47 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-010-9171-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-010-9171-y

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