Psychological Distress Among People Living With Cancer : A Study Based on an Idiographic Clinical Case Approach
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E9/2026-08Keywords:
Psychological distress, People living with cancer, CopingAbstract
This qualitative study examined the psychological distress experienced by people living with cancer. It was conducted with four participants treated at the University Clinics of Kinshasa. Its objective was to describe the psychological distress experienced by people with cancer and to examine the coping strategies they use to deal with their problematic situation.
To this end, we used the clinical method, together with the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale, the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and clinical interviews. The findings indicate that people living with cancer may experience high levels of psychological distress, characterized by feelings of vulnerability, uncertainty, and anxiety. To cope with their situation, they mainly resort to problem-focused coping strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Florentin Jandarme, Ozowa Latem Josue, Esenge Omekanda Clarisse, Blaise-Pascal Zirimwabagabo Muhindo (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
