Striving to Thrive: A Qualitative Study on Fostering a Relational Perspective Through Narrative Therapy in Couples Facing Cancer

Abstract

The present study explored how couples, in which one partner self-reported receiving a medical diagnosis of stage one or two cancer, fostered a relational perspective regarding cancer via narrative therapy interventions. This is a qualitative study with a multiple case study design and thematic analysis. Eight heterosexual couples (N =16) participated in dyadic, researcher-facilitated, audio-recorded therapeutic sessions (i.e., 208 sessions in one year). In-depth interviews were conducted with couples in a therapeutic setting. Three themes emerged: (a) increased vulnerability, (b) increased mindfulness, and (c) improved communication. Findings support the use of psychosocial therapeutic interventions based on narrative therapy.

Keywords:

• Couples
• cancer
• psychosocial interventions
• case study
• qualitative

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to show their gratitude to the Dr. Sharon Knight for sharing her pearls of wisdom with them during the course of this research.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.