Feeling Attractive in the Wake of Breast Cancer: Optimism Matters, and So Do Interpersonal Relationships

Abstract

Survey data from 63 married (or living as married) breast cancer patients (Stage I, n = 25; Stage II, n = 30; Stage III, n =8) provided evidence that both dispositional optimism and interpersonal factors may influence how physically attractive breast cancer patients feel. Optimistic women reported more frequently agreeing with their partners, higher levels of social support, and more feelings of physical attractiveness. Beyond the effects of optimism, relationship agreement and global perceptions of social support accounted for significant variance in feelings of attractiveness. Tests for mediation further suggested that more optimistic breast cancer patients feel more attractive because their dispositions promote perceptions that support is available in general and from their marital partners in particular. Agreement in the marital relationship appears to influence feelings of attractiveness, in large part, because relationship agreement contributes to generalized perceptions of available support.