Mood and the Communication Experiences of Breast Cancer Survivors

• In Event: Mood as a Predictor and Outcome of Communicatioin Processes in Relationships

Abstract

This paper explores how positive mood could serve to cushion breast cancer patients as they face stressors associated with their disease. We turned to mood-congruent perspectives to better understand how mood shapes communication between relational partners. Specifically, we examined the effects of positive, negative, and hopeful moods on communication exchanges about disease related stressors. Our results were consistent with mood-congruent perspectives. We are encouraged by our findings linking women’s emotional experiences with their communication interactions.

Authors

• Kirsten Weber, University of Georgia

• Denise Solomon, Penn State University