Exploring the Lifeworld of Caregivers of Patients with Cancer: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study
Keywords:
Bioworld, Caregivers of Cancer Patients, Interpretive PhenomenologyAbstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences and meaning-making processes of caregivers of patients with cancer within the Iranian cultural context using an interpretative phenomenological approach.
Methodology: This qualitative study was conducted using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Thirteen primary family caregivers of hospitalized cancer patients were purposively selected from Fatemeh Zahra Hospital during 2024–2025. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed following Smith and Shinebourne’s IPA framework. Trustworthiness was ensured based on Lincoln and Guba’s criteria.
Findings: Data analysis yielded 152 initial themes, which were clustered into 20 subordinate themes and synthesized into six superordinate themes: experienced emotions, fundamental factors, supportive factors, the process of meaning-making, feelings of emptiness and meaninglessness, and self-care. The findings revealed caregiving as a complex and dynamic experience encompassing profound emotional distress, existential challenges, and opportunities for personal growth.
Conclusion: Caring for a patient with cancer is a deeply emotional and existential experience that requires comprehensive psychological, social, and educational support for caregivers. Interventions focused on emotional support, meaning-centered approaches, and self-care training are essential to promote caregivers’ mental health and well-being.
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