Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
School
School of Nursing and Midwifery
First Supervisor
Lesley Andrew
Second Supervisor
Debbie Massey
Third Supervisor
Deborah Kirk
Abstract
Background: Hypnotherapy has shown promise in managing symptoms related to cancer treatment, yet its integration in supportive cancer care remains limited. There is a lack of research exploring perceptions of hypnotherapy of people with cancer and healthcare professionals, particularly in the Australian context.
Aim: This mixed methods study aimed to explore perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care from the perspectives of both patients and healthcare professionals.
Methodology: A convergent mixed methods design was employed. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with cancer patients undergoing active treatment (n = 14). Thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview data. A quantitative survey was developed and piloted with healthcare professionals (n = 89) to assess their perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care. The survey underwent psychometric evaluation, including factor analysis and internal consistency testing.
Results: Five themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: 1) emotional rollercoaster of cancer diagnosis; 2) perspectives on hypnotherapy among complementary and alternative medicine modalities; 3) hypnotherapy as psychological vs physiological support; 4) fringe benefits of hypnosis; and 5) main hurdles: cost and lack of information. The quantitative survey demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = .850) and revealed two distinct factors: perceived benefits of hypnotherapy, and concerns/misconceptions. Healthcare professionals exhibited knowledge gaps but also demonstrated interest in learning more about hypnotherapy.
Conclusion: This study provides insights into the perceptions of patient and healthcare professionals of hypnotherapy in cancer care, and highlights the need for education, the need to address barriers to its implementation, and the potential for integration of hypnotherapy into holistic cancer care practices.
DOI
10.25958/jqqv-hj18
Access Note
Access to this thesis is embargoed until 14th May 2028
Recommended Citation
Szmaglinska, M. (2025). Perceptions on the use of hypnotherapy in supportive care of patients during active cancer treatment in Australia: A mixed methods study. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/jqqv-hj18