Couple relationships in families with dependent children after a diagnosis of maternal breast cancer in the United Kingdom: Perspectives from mothers and fathers

Abstract

This article examines the facilitators and the barriers to couple relationships in families in the UK with dependent children after a diagnosis of maternal breast cancer. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 23 participants, including 10 couples and three women whose partners did not take part. Recorded interviews were analyzed using a thematic approach identifying themes and patterns in the interview transcripts and categorizing them using a framework. Key individual and contextual factors perceived as barriers or facilitators to couple relationships included: being a "young" family with young children, frustration and resentment from male partners, women's reactions to the illness, individual communication styles, differing needs for "personal space," body image concerns, and social support. Findings indicated the need for strengthening "family focus" in services with adequate support for male partners. Health and family services should consider variability in the experiences of couples with dependent children and be sensitive to the needs of partners alongside the women.

The challenges on the family unit faced by younger couples affected by prostate cancer: A qualitative study

“…5 These symptoms may disrupt the established role of each member of the husband/partner-wife/partner dyad; by impacting upon men's ability to work, the family's financial situation and difficulties in maintaining intimate relationships. 6 These challenges may further disrupt the relationship dynamics within couples and their families, 7 creating adjustment difficulties for children or YA. Studies suggest a parental cancer diagnosis and treatment can result in extensive changes to the lives of the whole family.…”

Hoping to reach a safe haven - Swedish families' lived experience when a family member is diagnosed with breast cancer

“…Previous research indicates that women and their family members require encouraging and open communication as well as collaborative support from health care professionals following a breast cancer diagnosis . It also emerges from previous research that there seems to be a need for understanding relationship vulnerabilities, communication patterns, and perceived needs in accordance with the individual circumstances of those who are affected, in order to improve the well-being of both the woman with breast cancer and her family (Courney, Puthussey, & Swinglehurst, 2016;.…”

Challenges experienced and resources identified by young to midlife couples 1–3 years post‐cancer diagnosis

“…The current study builds upon recent research on younger couples surviving cancer, 10,11,13,[15][16][17][18] by exploring the impact of cancer on both young (aged 18-39) and midlife (aged 40-56) couples posttreatment and the strengths they identify. By focusing on challenges and strengths, we hoped to explore a more balanced view of the cancer experience that could inform areas of need and also resources and strengths used by couples.…”