Question

Some researchers suggest. that there is a link between stress and cancer. However, one problem of focusing is on this relationship is that some:

a) healthy people will tell patients with cancer that their cancer is not their fault
b) patients will blame themselves for their illness
c) healthy people will not take credit for their healthy character
d) patients will not blame themselves for their illness

Answer 1

Focusing on the link between stress and cancer can lead to self-blame among patients, adding psychological distress and overshadowing the multitude of factors involved in cancer development.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the concerns with focusing on the relationship between stress and cancer is that patients might blame themselves for their illness. If people believe that stress contributes to cancer, those diagnosed with cancer might retrospectively evaluate their past stress levels and feel responsible for their condition. The psychological burden of cancer is already significant, and self-blame can exacerbate feelings of distress, potentially affecting the patient's emotional and physical well-being.

Additionally, a focus on stress may overshadow other important factors, such as genetics and environmental influences, in the understanding of cancer development. It's crucial to approach discussions on the etiology of cancer with sensitivity and to emphasize that numerous complex elements contribute to its onset, making it near impossible for a patient to be at 'fault' for their illness.