Current Research:
Cognitive Functioning
Chemotherapy and Cognitive Impairment in Breast Cancer Survivors
Mary J. Naus, Ph.D. & Laura Phillip, Ph.D.
Importance
- Many women report impairment in their ability to think, remember, and concentrate during chemotherapy (i.e., “chemo brain”)
Goals and Findings
- Addressing memory and concentration problems as perceived by the breast cancer survivor and by her significant other following chemotherapy
- Learning that “chemo brain” is reported by many survivors and also by their significant others
- Finding that memory and concentration improves but does not rebound completely even two years after chemotherapy has been completed
Reminiscence in Breast Cancer Survivors
Stephen Baker, Ph.D.
Importance
- Perhaps the experience of breast cancer alters a woman’s sense of identity and the way she thinks about her life
Goals and Findings
- Expecting that patterns of lifetime memories recalled will vary as a function of the breast cancer survivor’s sense of identity
- Examining the impact of a diagnosis of breast cancer on a woman’s sense of identity, her goals, and her life story
- Hoping to develop tailored support intervention programs for breast cancer survivors
Goal Changes and Quality of Life
Andy Robinson, Liz Ross & Lisa Hughes
Importance
- Determine how cancer or serious physical disabilities impact life goals across different life stages and ethnic groups
Goals and Findings
- Develop a comprehensive questionnaire to evaluate goal changes in health contexts
- Investigate the conditions under which goal changes have positive and negative impact on quality of life.
