No abstract

In this study, the authors investigated the relationship between autobiographical memory and the onset and maintenance of distressing memories following cancer. In Study 1, participants recently diagnosed with head, neck, or lung cancer were assessed for acute stress disorder (ASD). Participants with ASD reported fewer specific memories than did participants without ASD. In Study 2, the same participants were assessed 6 months later for autobiographical memory and cancer-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Deficits in the retrieval of specific memories in Study 1 were not predictive of subsequent PTSD. Increased hopelessness during the 6 months was associated with a decline in the retrieval of positive memories and an increase in the retrieval of negative memories. These findings accord with propositions that retrieval of distressing memories is guided by current self-image and attitude toward one's future.

This study investigated the predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a diagnosis of cancer. Individuals who were recently diagnosed with 1st onset head and neck or lung malignancy (N = 82) were assessed within 1 month of diagnosis for acute stress disorder (ASD) and other psychological responses including depression; individuals were reassessed (N = 63) for PTSD 6 months following their cancer diagnosis. At the initial assessment ASD was diagnosed in 28% of participants, and 22% met criteria for PTSD at 6-months follow-up. Peritraumatic dissociative symptoms at the time of receiving one's cancer diagnosis was the sole predictor of PTSD severity at 6-months follow-up. Elevated dissociative symptoms and greater distress at the initial assessment were the best predictors of PTSD caseness at 6-months follow-up. This study provides evidence for identifying recently diagnosed cancer patients who may benefit from psychological assistance in order to prevent chronic psychopathology.

No abstract

This study investigated the relationship between acute stress disorder (ASD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and comorbid anxiety, depressive, and substance use disorders over the first 12-month period following a cancer diagnosis. Individuals recently diagnosed with 1st onset head and neck or lung malignancy were assessed for ASD within the initial month following their diagnosis and reassessed for PTSD and other psychological disorders at both 6 months and 12 months following their cancer diagnosis. The incidence for PTSD at 12 months (14%) was lower than the incidence for other anxiety (20%) and depressive (20%) disorders. This study points to the need for the development of valid therapeutic interventions to assist this population in the 1st year following their diagnosis.