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The Contribution of Self-Awareness to the Psychological Wellbeing of Cancer Patients in Meru County, Kenya

Author

Listed:
  • Ruth N. Manyara

    (Department of Social Science, Chuka University P.O. Box 109 – 60400 Chuka)

  • Prof. Beatrice Mwarania Mburugu

    (Department of Social Science, Chuka University P.O. Box 109 – 60400 Chuka)

  • Dr. Grace Gatune Murithi

    (Department of Social Science, Chuka University P.O. Box 109 – 60400 Chuka)

Abstract

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer present profound emotional challenges that significantly impact patients' psychological wellbeing. Emotional intelligence, particularly the component of self-awareness, has been identified as a critical internal resource for navigating this distress. This study evaluated the contribution of self-awareness to the psychological wellbeing of cancer patients in Meru County, Kenya, an area where psychosocial oncology research is limited. The study was theoretically grounded in Self-Determination Theory, which suggests that fulfilling the basic psychological needs for autonomy and competence enhances wellbeing. A mixed-methods correlational research design was utilized, gathering quantitative data from 169 cancer patients through structured questionnaires and qualitative data from 17 professional caregivers via semi-structured interviews. Self-awareness was measured using a validated seven-item scale, and psychological wellbeing was assessed with Ryff's Psychological Wellbeing Scale. The findings revealed that a majority of patients (68.0%) exhibited high levels of self-awareness. A strong, statistically significant positive correlation was found between self-awareness and psychological wellbeing (Ï = .674, p < .001). This study concludes that self-awareness is a substantive contributor to the psychological adjustment and emotional resilience of cancer patients in Meru County. The findings support the integration of interventions aimed at enhancing self-awareness into standard cancer care to foster a more empowered and resilient patient population.

Suggested Citation

  • Ruth N. Manyara & Prof. Beatrice Mwarania Mburugu & Dr. Grace Gatune Murithi, 2025. "The Contribution of Self-Awareness to the Psychological Wellbeing of Cancer Patients in Meru County, Kenya," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(17), pages 659-668, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-17:p:659-668
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yordanos Gizachew Yeshitila & Getachew Mullu Kassa & Selamawit Gebeyehu & Peter Memiah & Melaku Desta, 2021. "Breast self-examination practice and its determinants among women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 16(1), pages 1-25, January.
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