Cancer and the partner relationship: what is its meaning?

When cancer occurs, it is an illness that has meaning for the lives of all members of the family. This article focuses on the meaning and significance of the illness for the partner relationship, both the individuals within the relationship and the dyad. Results of two studies are presented: one study is based on in-depth interviews with 50 individuals who were newly diagnosed with cancer and their partners, and the other study used questionnaires from 412 patients and 175 partners to obtain statistical data. Findings pointed to the importance of meaning in the adjustment of individuals, as well as the dyad. Interview data indicated that patients and their partners searched for meaning in the illness that would decrease its threat, and statistical analyses showed the significance of meaning as it applies to specific aspects of adjustment. The importance of considering meaning in care that is directed toward the prevention of problems within the dyad, which can occur as a result of coping with the stress of cancer are emphasized, and some specific recommendations are made.