Resilience among family caregivers of women with breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies.

PURPOSE: To identify, synthesize, and interpret qualitative evidence on resilience among family caregivers of women with breast cancer and to develop an integrated understanding of the processes that shape resilience in this caregiving context.

METHODS

We systematically searched Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO for English-language qualitative studies published from January 2000 through October 2025. Two researchers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts in Covidence and appraised methodological quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Data were extracted using a standardized form, and findings were synthesized thematically to develop analytical themes.

RESULTS

Ten studies from eight countries involving 161 family caregivers were included in this review. The analysis identified four interrelated analytical themes: (1) Spiritual beliefs as an anchoring foundation, using faith for meaning and stability; (2) Relational buffering, mobilizing practical and emotional support; (3) Adaptive flexibility, restructuring roles and integrating care into daily life; (4) Cognitive reframing, finding purpose and positivity. These themes illustrate resilience as a dynamic, context-dependent process rather than a fixed trait.

CONCLUSION

These findings may inform family-centered nursing strategies that support caregivers by addressing spiritual, relational, behavioral, and cognitive processes throughout the breast cancer trajectory. Further culturally sensitive and longitudinal research is needed to examine how these resilience processes evolve and how they can be supported in practice.