Acceptance, distress tolerance and sexual adjustment among women with breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women, significantly impacting various aspects of their lives. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of distress tolerance in the relationship between acceptance and sexual adjustment among women diagnosed with breast cancer. This study adopts a descriptive-correlational approach employing structural equation modeling. A total of 233 women diagnosed with breast cancer were selected through convenience sampling from members of the Cancer Council in Isfahan, Iran. Data were collected using the Distress Tolerance Scale, the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire, and the Sexual Adjustment Scale. The coefficient of the direct path from acceptance to distress tolerance (β = .47, <i>p</i> < .01) and sexual adjustment (β = .33, <i>p</i> < .01) was found to be positive and significant. Additionally, distress tolerance was revealed to play a significant mediating role in the relationship between acceptance and sexual adjustment among women with breast cancer (β = .12, <i>p</i> < .01). The ability to accept their diagnosis may help women with breast cancer manage the negative thoughts and emotions that naturally arise from such a potentially threatening situation. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating acceptance and distress tolerance training into psychological support programs to improve sexual adjustment in women with breast cancer.