Longitudinal Mediation Models of Coping, Spiritual Connection, Spiritual Meaning, Positive Affect and Distress in Cancer Survivors

Religiosity/spirituality is linked to better well-being. Spiritual Framework of Coping (SFC) model proposes paths to achieving emotional well-being, through spiritual connections/coping and meaning-making. To test SFC, four models were examined in 103 cancer patients, assessed at diagnosis, and again 12-/18-/24-/36- months post-diagnosis. Measures include religious and active-cognitive coping, religious attendance/importance, positive affect, spiritual meaning, and psychological distress (mood and depressive symptoms). Mediation was established by hierarchical multiple regressions and a Sobel test statistic. Positive affect served as a mediator between positive coping and spiritual meaning, and between spiritual connections and spiritual meaning. Spiritual meaning served as a mediator between positive affect and distress. Results support the SFC model, highlighting the importance of meaning and positive affect in adjusting to cancer.The Ohio State University College of the Arts and SciencesNational Cancer InstituteAmerican Cancer SocietyNational Institutes of HealthThe Ohio State UniversityNational Institute of Mental HealthUS Army Medical Research and Development CommandLongaberger Compan