Date of Completion
10-8-2015
Embargo Period
10-6-2020
Major Advisor
Sandra Rigazio-DiGilio
Associate Advisor
Laura Donorfio
Associate Advisor
Keith Bellizzi
Field of Study
Human Development and Family Studies
Open Access
Campus Access
Abstract
This study explores women’s experiences across the breast cancer continuum witha particular focus on understanding women’s perceptions of the medical and socialsupport networks that facilitate and constrain the provision of patient-centered careduring young adulthood. Using a phenomenological qualitative research design, 23women diagnosed with breast cancer between the ages of 18 to 39 years old wereinterviewed regarding their experiences with breast cancer from the point of diagnosisthrough recurrence and/or survivorship. Women were asked to discuss their perceptionsof self, medical and social support networks, and self in relation to medical and socialsupport networks across the breast cancer continuum and through present day. Womenwere asked to describe their perceptions about the real or assumed degree of power theyhad when engaging with healthcare and social support systems.
Recommended Citation
Froude, Cameron, "Women’s Healthcare Experiences Across the Breast Cancer Continuum: Retrospective Perceptions of Medical and Social Support Networks" (2015). Doctoral Dissertations. 888.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/dissertations/888