Ptsd And Lymphoma: Two Very Different Psychological Trajectories Following A Common Diagnosis.

195Background: Long-term chronic lymphoma survivors report lower quality of life compared to those who are cured of lymphoma, despite an equal prevalence of PTSD symptoms in both groups. Posttraumatic Growth (PTG), or positive psychological change following a traumatic event, has been associated with greater acceptance of the disease and greater quality of life, particularly because PTG has been shown to diminish the negative effects of PTSD symptoms. Methods: Semi-structured, in-person qualitative interviews were conducted among a convenience sample of lymphoma survivors. Participants answered questions about their emotional reactions after diagnosis, during treatment, and symptoms of PTSD and positive changes—if any—that developed during the cancer experience. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed using Grounded Theory methodology. Results: 77 lymphoma survivors - 75% chronic lymphoma, 25% curable lymphoma completed interviews. Themes included 1) disease: perception of health; 2) support...