Shutiwan Purinthrapibal

Citation

Thesis Title
"People who are together with me" Personal Social Networks of Women Living with Breast Cancer in the Lower Southern Region of Thailand

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Living with breast cancer is a long, complex and challenging journey for women patients and those providing personal support. Ms Purinthrapibal explored the personal social networks of 11 women diagnosed with breast cancer and living in southern Thailand. Her study collected information from their perspectives, those of their significant supporters, and those who sought formal support through a cancer club. A qualitative collective case study was undertaken and longitudinal data collected through interviews, participant observations, and network mapping. Through cross case analysis, five unique network characteristics emerged: i) the interplay between support, supporters, and relationships; ii) hierarchies of member significance; iii) different degrees of relationships and feelings; iv) network fluidity; and v) the network life cycle. These characteristics were underpinned by criteria related to the disease and its treatment, the importance of relationships, and of cultural differences. Implications for nurses caring for women with breast cancer were also identified. 

Supervisors
Dr Lesley Batten
Dr Kittikorn Nilmanat
Professor Julie Boddy
Professor Jenny Carryer