Mediating effect of self-disclosure between stigma and loneliness in breast cancer survivors

ObjectiveTo explore the mediating effect of self-disclosure between stigma and loneliness in breast cancer survivors based on the theory of social penetration, and provide theoretical support for carrying out intervention plan.

MethodsA total of 220 breast cancer survivors who meeting criteria in the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College from November 2021 to April 2022 were selected as research subjects by convenience sampling method.The general data questionnaire, social impact scale (SIS), distress disclosure (DDI) index and loneliness scale (UCLA-8) were used to conduct a questionnaire survey, the correlation between various variables was analyzed, and the mediating effect of self-disclosure was tested.

ResultsThe score of SIS, DDI and UCLA-8 of breast cancer survivors were 63.24±7.28, 38.28±8.76 and 18.59±4.37 points, respectively.Stigma was positively correlated with loneliness (r=0.595, P < 0.01), and self-disclosure was negatively correlated with stigma and loneliness (r=-0.405, -0.487, P < 0.01).Self-disclosure had some mediating effect between the stigma and loneliness, and the amount of mediating effect was 21%.

ConclusionsLoneliness is common among breast cancer survivors, and self-disclosure and stigma are closely related to it.Medical staff should cooperate with family and social resources to take measures to reduce stigma and promote self-disclosure, so as to reduce loneliness and improve the overall quality of life.