Sources of ‘relational homes’: A qualitative study of cancer survivors’ perception of emotional support

Hans Raun Iversen, Elisabeth Assing Hvidt, H.P. Hansen

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8 Citationer (Scopus)

Abstract

The aim of this article is to shed light on the different ways in which a group of Danish cancer survivors fulfil their need of emotional support. The study comprised participant observation at a Danish cancer rehabilitation centre, individual semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews with course participants. The analytical process combined the inductive approach of interpretative phenomenological analysis with a deductive theoretical strategy. Key concepts from Robert D. Stolorow's existential-phenomenological trauma theory were used as interpretative framework. Findings suggest that cancer survivors’ perception of emotional support is captured by the theoretical concept a “relational home,” understood here as a supportive and caring environment. A relational home may include different dimensions in various situations and contexts, including an existential and metaphysical dimension in which God/a higher power may provide emotional support similar to that obtained in human relationships.
OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftMental Health, Religion & Culture
Vol/bind16(6)
Sider (fra-til)617-632
ISSN1367-4676
DOI
StatusUdgivet - 2012

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