The Relationship between Death Anxiety, Level of Optimism and Religiosity among Adult Cancer Patients: A Predictive Study

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the relationship between death anxiety, optimism and religiosity among cancer patients. The sample consisted of (42) adults who were all suffering from cancer. Three main scales namely, death anxiety scale, optimism scale and religiosity scale were developed by the researcher and then used in the present study to collect data. Pearson Correlation Coefficient (-0.38) showed that the relationship between death anxiety and optimism was statistically significant. On the other hand, the relationship between death anxiety and religiosity was also statistically significant as Pearson Correlation Coefficient was (-0.34). Furthermore, regression and prediction coefficients (stepwise) showed that death anxiety could be predicted by optimism and religiosity. therefore the need for the preparation of programs for the counseling for cancer patients to reduce the death anxiety fells and increase their level of optimism.