Communicative Adjustment to Breast Cancer across the Life Span: Mother-Adult Daughter Communication after a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Author:

• Carla L. Fisher (Penn State University)

Abstract:

Regardless of age, breast cancer patients seek support in their mother-daughter bond. Yet, their developmental phase at diagnosis affects their cancer-related concerns. Thus, it is likely that their mother-daughter communication will differ as well. This study explores how developmentally diverse women communicatively adjust to cancer in this bond. Socioemotional selectivity theory was used to explore age differences in communication preferences and heighten health professionals' awareness of the importance of family communication in patients' adjustment.