Life stories of cancer survivors in Malta : a sociological study of reflexivity

Abstract

This Sociological study explores the life experiences of former Cancer patients. This was conducted mainly through a qualitative research method; life histories, in the form of in-depth face to face interviews with eleven former Cancer patients. The recruitment of this study was based on snowballing sampling through convenience sampling. In addition, I also analysed four public testimonials of Cancer survivors. This study explores the different perspectives of Cancer survivors that arise from their past experience. This dissertation focuses on how former Cancer patients coped and adjusted to their former illness and how Cancer affected their identity. Through Sociological theories related to reflexivity and social capital, this study concludes that being diagnosed with such a serious illness didn’t discourage respondents from staying positive and fight against their illness. One coping strategy that helped participants staying positive during their former illness was social support from their family members. Also, it was found that besides receiving support from others, respondents themselves were a source of support to their relatives.