The Impact of Breast Cancer on the Mother–Daughter Relationship: Implications of Relationship With God on Attachment

Abstract

This study focused on the impact of breast cancer on the mother−daughter bond and the role of spirituality in adjustment. Two mother−daughter dyads were interviewed about their experience of maternal breast cancer. Breast cancer triggered a fear of relational loss in both dyads, however each dyad evidenced a different pathway in adjustment. Analysis revealed themes of intrapersonal reactions (e.g., emotions) of mothers and daughters as individuals, interpersonal dynamics (e.g., avoidance coping) of the mother−daughter dyad, and the role of relationship with God in the relational adjustment process. Relationship with God can serve as a compensatory resource or a source of stress for daughters coping with maternal breast cancer.

KEYWORDS:

• mother−daughter relationship
• breast cancer
• spirituality
• attachment
• coping