Abstract
Background: The side effects of local and systemic treatments for breast cancer negatively impact the body image, sexual functioning, and social life of women on treatment for breast cancer. One of the ways to help these women adapt to their disease and cope with the effects of the disease and the side effects of its treatment is through support groups.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a support group intervention, guided by Roy's Adaptation Model, on sexual adaptation, body image, and perceived social support in women on treatment for cancer.
Methods: The study had a quasi-experimental design with pretests and posttests and a control group. The sample included 79 women, 42 in the control group and 37 in the intervention group. Data were gathered with demographic and clinical forms, the Sexual Adjustment and Body Image Scale, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. The intervention group received a support group intervention guided by Roy's Adaptation Model.
Results: The intervention group had significantly higher scores for perceived social support, post body image, impact on sexual functioning, and friendly and significant others than the control group did.
Conclusion: The Roy's Adaptation Model-based support group intervention contributes positively to physiologic, self-concept, role-function, and interdependence modes by creating a positive effect on body image, improving sexual functions, and increasing social support for women on treatment for breast cancer.
Implications for Practice: This support group intervention may enhance care outcomes in women on treatment for cancer and could thus be incorporated into standard care for this patient group.