Forgiveness and Health Outcomes in Cancer Survivorship: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND

Religious and spiritual beliefs including forgiveness are an important aspect of cancer survivorship; however, the relationship between forgiveness and health is not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to conduct a scoping review that examines and maps the current research regarding relationships between forgiveness and health outcomes in individuals with cancer.

METHODS

We searched 5 electronic databases using key search terms related to forgiveness and cancer. Using a scoping review framework, we synthesized the existing literature regarding forgiveness and health among individuals with cancer and examined forgiveness as a process for coping with cancer.

RESULTS

We located 277 articles for review; 24 met inclusion criteria. Forgiveness in interpersonal relationships emerged more often as forgiveness coping than other types of forgiveness. Most studies reported a positive association between forgiveness and mental health. Fewer studies were available regarding relationships between forgiveness and physical health, and findings were mixed.

CONCLUSIONS

Forgiveness in interpersonal relationships is a spiritual concern for individuals with cancer. Addressing forgiveness needs may promote mental health in cancer survivors. More empirical evidence is needed to understand the role of forgiveness in physical health in individuals with cancer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Acknowledging forgiveness beliefs is a psychosocial-spiritual intervention that nurses can provide to support mental health in individuals with cancer. The potential role of forgiveness in physical health for individuals with cancer requires further study.