Abstract
Although African American women are exposed to major life stressors such as breast cancer, many have high levels of psychological well-being (PWB). However, there are no current studies that describe the psychological effects of applying sense of coherence, hope, and spiritual perspective by African American breast cancer survivors. These three inner resources have each been positively associated with PWB or coping.
This correlational study tested the Gibson Model of Inner Resources in 162 African American breast cancer survivors who completed the Abbreviated Herth Hope Index, Spiritual Perspective Scale, Sense of Coherence Scale (13-item) and the Quality of Life/Breast Cancer (PWB Subscale). Statistical analyses included correlation, multiple regression, and path analysis. Study findings supported the model. Sense of coherence significantly accounted for 37.5% and hope for 5.3% of PWB. Spiritual perspective did not significantly account for any of the variance, but there was an indirect path from spiritual perspective through hope to PWB.
Sense of coherence and hope were direct predictors; however, spiritual perspective and hope together were predictors of PWB. Health professionals should consider strategies to enhance sense of coherence and hope when caring for African American breast cancer survivors. Qualitative research is indicated to further explore spirituality in this population.