Cancer storytelling: a study of well-being expressions made by patients.

Abstract

Many cancer patients tell their story to help others. This paper reports a study of 160 such stories, which were processed using a grounded theory methodology. The stories were rich in emotional words and in metaphors and these, along with self-talk and meaning-for-life, provided the commonest indications of the patients' well-being. Cancer patients, through the process of telling their story, help themselves and enhance their well-being. The method of active listening is described, with associated risks for professionals.