The Embodied Identities of Young Women Diagnosed and Treated for Breast Cancer

Abstract

The present study was designed to explore the embodied experiences and associated shifts in identity among young women diagnosed with and treated for breast cancer. Twelve in-depth semistructured interviews were conducted with participants ages 24–44. Data were analyzed with a constructivist grounded theory approach. The emergent central construct of embodied identity had five core dimensions: (1) connection to the physical body; (2) social power; (3) internalization versus rejection of gender-related discourses; (4) relational connections; and (5) practicing meaningful priorities. Periods of disconnection and loss included: loss of physical safety and agency; loss of social power through appearance; and loss of traditional feminine roles. Experiences of body-based reconnection included: increased physical desire and agency; renewed social power without objectification; and enhanced meaning-making opportunities. Findings suggest that the body is an important site for identity-related processing after completion of cancer treatment. Clinically relevant psychosocial interventions and recommendations for future investigations are discussed.

Keywords:

• Breast cancer
• embodiment
• identity
• quality of life
• qualitative methods

Acknowledgement

We would like to acknowledge the doctoral award from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and thank all the women who participated in the study.