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Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings

Published in:

01-03-2013

A Longitudinal Investigation of Posttraumatic Growth in Adult Patients Undergoing Treatment for Acute Leukemia

Authors: Suzanne C. Danhauer, Gregory B. Russell, Richard G. Tedeschi, Michelle T. Jesse, Tanya Vishnevsky, Kristin Daley, Suzanne Carroll, Kelli N. Triplett, Lawrence G. Calhoun, Arnie Cann, Bayard L. Powell

Published in: Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings | Issue 1/2013

Abstract

An acute leukemia diagnosis can be an extremely stressful experience for most patients. Posttraumatic growth (PTG) is positive psychological change experienced following a struggle with highly challenging life circumstances. The current study is the first longitudinal investigation of predictors of PTG and distress in adult acute leukemia patients undergoing induction chemotherapy. Findings suggest that these patients report PTG, and levels of PTG appear to increase over the weeks following leukemia diagnosis and induction chemotherapy. Variables associated with higher total PTG scores over time included greater number of days from baseline, younger age, and greater challenge to core beliefs. Variables associated with higher distress included greater number of days from baseline, greater perceived cancer threat, higher symptom severity, and lower spiritual well-being. Results underscore the critical role that examination of one’s core beliefs may play in the development of PTG over time.

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Title: A Longitudinal Investigation of Posttraumatic Growth in Adult Patients Undergoing Treatment for Acute Leukemia
Authors: Suzanne C. Danhauer
Gregory B. Russell
Richard G. Tedeschi
Michelle T. Jesse
Tanya Vishnevsky
Kristin Daley
Suzanne Carroll
Kelli N. Triplett
Lawrence G. Calhoun
Arnie Cann
Bayard L. Powell
Publication date: 01-03-2013
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings / Issue 1/2013
Print ISSN: 1068-9583
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3572
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10880-012-9304-5

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

A Longitudinal Investigation of Posttraumatic Growth in Adult Patients Undergoing Treatment for Acute Leukemia

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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