The development process of self-acceptance among Chinese women with breast cancer

Aim The development process of self-acceptance in breast cancer survivors is a dynamic process that is poorly understood. The objective of the present study was to explore and delineate the dynamic progression toward self-acceptance in Chinese women with breast cancer. Methods Data were collected through individual in-depth face-to-face interviews with 20 women who had undergone treatment for breast cancer at the breast center in a large tertiary care hospital in Ningbo, China between September 2016 and June 2017. Data analysis occurred through the open, axial, and selective coding stages of grounded theory and used the constant comparative method. Results Based on the interviewer responses, one core category, three categories, and seven subcategories were identified that pertained to the process of self-acceptance in Chinese women with breast cancer. The core category of self-acceptance was normalization, returning to the pre-illness state with an identity and image that conformed to the cultural norm. To reach normalization, women progressed through a crisis stage, a compromise stage, and a managing impressions stage. Conclusion This study proposes that self-acceptance in breast cancer survivors is a dynamic and active process. Findings will inform the development of interventions that will provide structure and support to Chinese women with breast cancer.