Psycho-oncology
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There has been considerable research on the prevalence and demographic profile of cancer patients who opt to supplement conventional therapies with the use of complementary therapy. There is rather less information on the personality and adjustment variables associated with the decision to use complementary therapy. The aim of the present study is to investigate the relationship between the use of complementary therapies by cancer patients and their mental adjustment to cancer, recovery locus of control, life orientation and psychopathology. ⋯ The findings of this study do not support the argument that the use of complementary therapy is associated with higher levels of psychopathology and distress. However, the data do indicate that for some patients the use of complementary therapy fulfils an important psychological need. The finding that psychosocial variables like fighting spirit and locus of control may impact on an individual's therapeutic choice can assist clinicians in tailoring interventions to personality and adjustment characteristics.