Date of Award
2004
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts Honours
Faculty
Faculty of Community Services, Education and Social Sciences
First Supervisor
Dr Moira O'Connor
Second Supervisor
Dr Colleen Fisher
Abstract
A diagnosis of cancer may have many meanings for a man in terms of the impact that cancer has on various aspects of his life, including his identity as a man. Subsequent membership of a cancer support group may support men negotiating their changing identity. A review of the relevant literature examines the impact of cancer and its treatments for men, and the various changes resulting from men's experiences with cancer and cancer treatments. An overview of support groups, their function, composition, and benefits is provided with a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of professional and member facilitated cancer support groups. Men and their membership in various support groups and the role of support groups in the renegotiation of men's identities is explored. The lack of literature regarding the role of cancer support groups in the renegotiation of men's identity following a diagnosis of cancer indicates a need for research in this area.
Recommended Citation
Chegwidden, K. M. (2004). Construction of Male Identity : The Relationship Between Cancer Support Groups and Identity for Men who are Living With Cancer. Edith Cowan University. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses_hons/974