Reciprocal influences in the adjustment of couples facing return to work after cancer

Abstract

Background: An increasing number of people surviving the cancer has led to assist them more often in order to return to active working life. This period may be accompanied by a sense of vulnerability that can lead to burnout (Bézy, 2013). In the literature, it has been shown that the spouse has a protective role concerning the psychological distress among the other member of the couple during cancer. The aim of this dissertation is to explore partner’s influence in the context of returning to work after cancer. Method: 200 couples (100 affected by a history of cancer and 100 without cancer experience) will respond to different questionnaires. Quantitative variables, which are protective of burnout on the one hand and predictive of well-being at work on the other, will be the subject of intra-dyadic analysis using the model APIM (Kenny & Cook, 1999). In contrast, qualitative data obtained by semi-structured interviews conducted with 20 volunteers couples (10 affected by a history of cancer and 10 without cancer experience) will be analyzed by a thematic analysis using NVivo software Version 10. Expected results: We expect identify and examine the variables that protect from burnout and those that positively affect the well-being of people at work after cancer through couple’s resources. Current stage of work: We are going to start the collection of quantitative data through online questionnaires. Discussion: Finally, this work should help to develop useful recommendations to support people to improve return to work process after cancer.