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Psychosocial sequelae of breast cancer and its treatment

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  • Published:
Annals of Behavioral Medicine

Abstract

The psychosocial problems associated with breast cancer have commanded more and more attention. Historical developments in medicine and society have altered the context in which breast cancer is diagnosed and treated. There are many new issues for researchers interested in quality-of-life issues surrounding breast cancer, and findings from past research must be evaluated carefully. Accordingly, this article reviews: (a) historical developments affecting the context of breast cancer research, (b) aspects of breast cancer and its treatments that challenge well-being, (c) the literature considering breast cancer’s psychosocial sequelae, and (d) variables that may influence the intensity of its impact. In addition, we offer some directions for future research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Yale University, P.O. Box 208205, New Haven, CT 06520-8205

    Anne Moyer Ph.D. & Peter Salovey Ph.D.

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  1. Anne Moyer Ph.D.
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  2. Peter Salovey Ph.D.
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Anne Moyer was supported by a fellowship from the Medical Research Council of Canada.

Preparation of this manuscript was supported in part by the following grants to Peter Salovey: American Cancer Society (PBR-84), National Cancer Institute (P01 CA42101), and an NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award (BNS 9058020).

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Moyer, A., Salovey, P. Psychosocial sequelae of breast cancer and its treatment. Ann Behav Med 18, 110–125 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02909583

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