The association between open communication and psychological well-being as mediated by approach coping in women with breast cancer: Cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence

초록

This study extends previous research on the psychological health benefits of open communication in a close relationship for patients by presenting both cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence. Data came from a larger project with women with breast cancer (N = 661) which involved baseline and three rounds of follow-up surveys as well as online interactive interventions. This study examined the survey data at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks after the intervention (controlling for the effects of the intervention conditions). Results from both cross-sectional and longitudinal data supported that open communication in a close relationship was positively associated with patients’ psychological well-being and that this association was mediated by percentage approach coping. Implications and limitations are discussed.