The association of having a monitoring or blunting coping style with psychological distress, health-related quality of life and satisfaction with healthcare in gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) patients
Deborah van de Wal, Britt van Doorn, Dide den Hollander, Ingrid M.E. Desar, Hans Gelderblom, Astrid W. Oosten, Anna K.L. Reyners, Neeltje Steeghs, Winette T.A. van der Graaf, Olga Husson
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There are two main coping styles regarding information seeking under medical threat; monitoring (information-seeking) and blunting (information-avoiding). The aim of this study is to (1) determine factors associated with a monitoring or blunting coping style in gastro-intestinal stromal tumour (GIST) patients and (2) investigate its association with psychological distress, cancer-related concerns, health-related quality of life and satisfaction with healthcare. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, Dutch GIST patients completed the shortened version of the Threatening Medical Situations Inventory to determine their coping style, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Cancer Worry Scale, EORTC QLQ-C30 and part of the EORTC QLQ-INFO25. RESULTS: =.025). Compared to blunters, monitors were less satisfied with the received healthcare and information, and would have liked to receive more information. CONCLUSION: GIST patients with a monitoring coping style experience a higher emotional burden. Additionally, monitors exhibit a greater need for information. Although this need for information could potentially result in fears and concerns, recognising it may also create an opening for tailored communication and information.