Changes of Self-efficacy, Depression, and Posttraumatic Growth in Survivors with Breast Cancer Participating Breast Cancer Prevention Volunteering

Abstract

Purpose : This study was to explore the long-term effects of breast cancer prevention volunteering on self-efficacy, depression, and posttraumatic growth among survivors with breast cancer. Methods: This pilot study utilized a longitudinal design. Participants were 14 women with breast cancer who participated in the breast cancer prevention educational program. The data were collected between February and August in 2013. Self-report questionnaires were used to measure the self-efficacy for self-management of breast cancer, depression, and posttraumatic growth at pre-education(T0), 1 month(T1), 3 months(T2), and 6 months(T3) post-education. A generalized estimating equation regression model was used to identify the effects. Results: The scores of self-efficacy increased significantly at T1(χ=5.56, p=.018) and T3(χ=4.56, p=.033) compared with T0. Depression and posttraumatic growth remained stable with fairly good levels throughout the 6-month period. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that breast cancer prevention volunteering in survivors with breast cancer can be effective for enhancing their self-efficacy and maintaining psychological well-being. Also the study showed that such volunteering activity could be a useful program not only for the general public but also for breast cancer survivors.