Exploring common meanings of social support as experienced by Jordanian women with breast cancer

Background: Research addressing social support among women diagnosed with breast cancer has been explored in several Western cultures, but there is a lack of such research in Jordanian women diagnosed with breast cancer. Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore common meanings of social support as experienced by Jordanian women with breast cancer. Methods: A qualitative interpretive phenomenological research design was used for this study. A purposive sample of 20 women diagnosed with stage I, II, or III breast cancer was recruited from 2 hospitals located in Jordan. Data were collected using individual semistructured interviews and analyzed using the Heideggerian hermeneutical methodology. Results: Six related themes and 1 constitutive pattern describe the meaning of social support for Jordanian women with breast cancer: (a) breast cancer as a stigmatized disease among Jordanian women with breast cancer, (b) social support from social network members, (c) being strong for self and others, (d) resources influence availability and need for social support, (e) controlling information for protection, and (f) using spiritual meaning as support. The constitutive pattern was labeled: culture influencing the meaning of social support. Conclusion: Jordanian women with breast cancer rely primarily on other women for social support, most of whom are in their family network. Need for social support can vary by resources available to these women. Implications for practice: Health care providers who give care to Jordanian women with breast cancer need to consider the influence of culture, religion, and clinical and personal characteristics of each woman on her need for social support.