Religiosity and hope: a path for women coping with a diagnosis of breast cancer

Psychosomatics. 2009 Sep-Oct;50(5):525-33. doi: 10.1176/appi.psy.50.5.525.

Abstract

Background: Both religiosity and hope are known for their positive role in coping with cancer.

Objective: This study examines the mediating role of hope between religiosity and coping for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Method: Israeli Jewish women with breast cancer (N=233) completed the Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale, The Systems of Belief Inventory, and The Hope Scale.

Results: By use of hierarchical regression, hope was found to be a mediator between religiosity and three coping styles.

Conclusion: Special attention should be given to the role of hope for religious patients because it increases the positive effects of religion in coping with cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Breast Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Israel
  • Middle Aged
  • Regression Analysis
  • Religion*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Women / psychology*