Factors Affecting Psychological Resilience and Coping Experiences of Cancer Patients: A Phenomenological Study

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors affecting psychological resilience and coping experiences of cancer patients. Methods: In this study using the phenomenological research method, semi- structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 22 individuals with cancer living in a province in northern Turkey. Criterion sampling method, one of the purposive sampling methods, was used to reach the sample group. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed. The data of the study were evaluated using thematic analysis. The study was conducted and reported according to the COREQ checklist. Results: Data analysis revealed three themes (effects of cancer, coping with cancer, psychological resilience and influencing factors) and eight sub-themes (mental, physical, social, perception of social support, treatment process, personal competence and future plans, spiritual disposition and perspective on negative events). Conclusion: The results of the study showed that cancer has a negative psychosocial impact on individuals. The treatment and care process in cancer can negatively affect the psychological resilience of individuals. In this process, it was determined that situations such as perception of social support, coping resources, perspective on negative events, spirituality can affect psychological resilience.