The Therapeutic Effect of Expressive Writing.
This research wants to understand if a special kind of writing, called 'compassionate expressive writing,' can help people who have or have had cancer. We're interested in how it affects their overall well-being, including how they feel about their bodies, their self-kindness, and their general quality of life. The study will compare this compassionate writing method with a more standard way of writing about cancer experiences. Participants will write in response to topics related to their cancer journey over four sessions. Doctors will then look at how these different writing approaches might improve feelings of well-being and how people cope with cancer-related body changes. It's about finding new ways to support people through their cancer experience.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into something called 'expressive writing' and how it might help people who have experienced cancer. Expressive writing means writing freely about your thoughts and feelings. This research focuses on whether adding a sense of 'compassion' to this writing, meaning being kind and understanding towards yourself and your experiences, can make a difference.
The main aim is to see if this compassionate way of writing can improve how people feel about their bodies, how kind they are to themselves, their overall quality of life, and their general happiness after a cancer diagnosis or treatment. The study will compare this compassionate writing method to a more general expressive writing approach, where compassion isn't specifically encouraged. By doing this, researchers hope to learn if being compassionate in your writing offers extra benefits.
Ultimately, this research aims to find new, gentle ways to support people living with and beyond cancer. It's about understanding how connecting with your feelings through writing, especially with kindness, might help you cope with the changes and challenges that cancer can bring to your life and how you view your body.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how writing about cancer affects well-being.
- It compares 'compassionate' writing with standard expressive writing.
- The focus is on body image, self-kindness, and overall quality of life.
- Participation involves 4 writing sessions and questionnaires over 5 weeks.
- The aim is to find new ways to support people after cancer.
- You don't need special writing skills to join.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and able to read and write in English. A key part is that you must have experienced some change to your body, either inside or out, because of cancer or its treatment at any point in your life.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you are currently feeling very distressed due to your cancer outlook or a mental health condition, or if you can't commit to attending four writing sessions over four weeks because of your health or other busy plans. Also, if you can't give your informed consent, which means understanding what the study involves and agreeing to take part freely, you wouldn't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you read and write in English?
- Have you experienced a body change due to cancer or its treatment?
- Can you realistically commit to attending four writing sessions?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll first fill out some questionnaires about your well-being. Then, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups: one will do compassionate expressive writing, and the other will do standard expressive writing. Over four separate sessions, you'll write freely for about 20 minutes each time, responding to a topic related to your cancer journey.
After these writing sessions, you'll fill out the same questionnaires again. You'll also be asked to repeat these questionnaires one month later to see if any changes have lasted. The total time you'll be actively involved in the study, including the writing sessions and questionnaires, will be spread out over about five weeks.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Royal Cornwall Hospital NHS TrustVerified postcodeTruro, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is expressive writing?
It's writing freely about your thoughts and feelings about a particular experience, like your cancer journey, without worrying about grammar or spelling.
What's the difference between compassionate expressive writing and standard expressive writing?
Compassionate writing specifically encourages you to be kind and understanding towards yourself and your body while you write, whereas standard writing doesn't have that specific focus.
Will my writing be private?
Yes, your writing will be treated confidentially by the research team. Your personal information will be protected.
Do I need to be a good writer to take part?
No, you don't need any special writing skills. The study is about expressing yourself and your feelings, not about perfect writing.
How long will the study last for me?
Your active participation, including writing sessions and questionnaires, will be spread out over about five weeks.
How to find out more
Ariane Scalpello, Doctoral
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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