Identification of the Physiological Dimension and SelfConcept among Husbands of Iranian Women with Mastectomy; a Directed Content Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer, as the most prevalent cancer among females, exerts physical and mental impacts on both patients and their husbands. The present study aimed at investigating various dimensions of self-concept among husbands of Iranian women with mastectomy.

METHODS: This study was conducted on 23 patients with mastectomy and their husbands and therapists using directed content analysis according to Callista-Roy adaptation model. The participants were interviewed regarding how they coped with cancer through video call, and 'physical dimensions' and 'self-concept' subcategories were identified. Content analysis was done using the Elo and Kyngus approach.

RESULTS: The results revealed two main themes, namely 'exposure to physical challenges' and 'weakened to strengthened self-concept'.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This research showed the existence of many physical and mental problems of women undergoing mastectomy, and it is recommended to do interventions to reduce these complications.