Özet:

Abstract. Cancer is one of the most common diseases of the modern era and is considered one of the biggest concerns for human. Along with the diagnosis of cancer, the role of psychological factors in the disease becomes more highlighted. The purpose of this study is to investigate on the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in reducing distress and increased life expectancy in patients with breast cancer. For this purpose, in a quasi-experimental design 30 women with breast cancer in Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran were randomly divided into two experimental and control groups through an available sampling method. Then the experimental group received 10 sessions of dialectical behavior therapy, each lasted for 90 minutes. Before and after training, both groups were tested with Kessler Distress Scale and Snyder hope questionnaire. The results of the analysis of covariance showed that the dialectical behavior therapy is effective on reducing distress and increased life expectancy of patients with cancer. Therefore it seems that this approach can be used with confidence in the treatment of stress associated with the disease and increases hope of recovery in these people.

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