Predicting post-traumatic growth based on rumination-reflection in patients with cancer

BACKGROUND: Following life-threatening experiences such as cancer, people show positive psychological changes, known as post-traumatic growth. Post-traumatic growth is associated with greater physical and mental health experience and lower distress and post-traumatic stress. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the model of predicting post-traumatic growth based on rumination/reflection with the mediating role of the meaning of life. METHODS: The research was conducted by correlation method and structural equation modeling (SEM). The sample consisted of 300 patients with cancer referred to hospitals in Tehran Province, Iran, who were selected by purposive sampling. Participants completed the Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire (RRQ), Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), and Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ). RESULTS: Rumination/reflection had a direct and indirect effect (mediated by the meaning of life) on the post-traumatic growth of people with cancer. Meaning of life also had a significant direct effect on post-traumatic growth. CONCLUSION: The meaning of life both directly and through rumination-reflection has a significant effect on post-traumatic growth in patients with cancer. Therefore, to improve the mental health of these patients, it is recommended that more attention be paid to the meaning of life in these patients during treatment.