From "passive burden-bearing" to "active benefit-gaining": exploring the psychological growth paths of female caregivers of advanced lung cancer patients.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the benefit-finding experiences of female caregivers of patients with lung cancer, focusing particularly on their positive psychological adaptations throughout the caregiving process. The findings are expected to inform the development of more targeted and effective nursing interventions.

METHODS

A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, with sample size determined by the principle of data saturation. From November to December 2024, 12 female caregivers of hospitalized lung cancer patients were purposively recruited from a tertiary hospital in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. Data were collected through semistructured, in-depth interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step method. MAXQDA 22.0 software was utilized to facilitate data organization, coding, and thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Twelve participants aged 30-75 years were included in the study. Analysis of the interview data generated four major themes and six subthemes: (1) reflections on the meaning of life (drawing strength in adversity, reconstructing life meaning), (2) enhancement of caregiving competence (improved disease-related knowledge, strengthened caregiving role), (3) multifaceted support (perceived family support, perceived social support), and (4) adoption of positive coping strategies.

CONCLUSION

Female caregivers of patients with lung cancer demonstrated clear benefit-finding experiences throughout the caregiving process. These findings underscore the importance of supporting caregivers in developing adaptive coping strategies, strengthening caregiving skills, and addressing both the physical and psychological needs of patients. Facilitating positive psychological adjustment and mobilizing supportive resources can not only promote patient self-management and well-being but also enhance caregivers' perceived benefits and reduce caregiving stress.