On the contribution of psychological flexibility to predict adjustment to breast cancer.

BACKGROUND

This study explored the contribution of Psychological Flexibility (PF) to predict adjustment to breast cancer.

METHOD

Sixty-four females with breast cancer completed self-report measures of PF and adjustment (anxiety, depression, negative and positive affect) at baseline, and forty-two patients returned for assessment six months later.

RESULTS

Higher flexibility at baseline significantly contributed to predict lower anxiety, depression and negative affect at follow-up. The effect sizes ranged from moderate to large.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide evidence for targeting PF to prevent enhanced psychological distress in patients with breast cancer, and add to a growing body of research supporting PF as a common protective factor across different contexts and populations.