Oncology Patients and Bibliotherapy

Abstract

The integration of bibliotherapy in oncology offers a unique approach to addressing the emotional and psychological challenges faced by cancer patients. Bibliotherapy, the therapeutic use of literature, has been historically recognized for its healing properties, tracing back to ancient civilizations where libraries were revered as healing spaces. In modern times, it encompasses activities like reading, storytelling, and creative writing, applied in diverse contexts including clinical settings. The premise of bibliotherapy lies in its ability to offer psychological insights, foster empathy, and provide comfort through characters' experiences in literature. It aligns with cognitive-behavioral and psychoanalytic theories, suggesting its potential to modify negative thought patterns and facilitate emotional catharsis and self-reflection. Cancer treatment not only involves physical but also psychological aspects. Patients often face anxiety, depression, and isolation. Bibliotherapy can complement medical treatment by offering emotional support and psychological respite. The process of bibliotherapy, involves identification with characters, emotional release, and gaining insights, leading to practical applications in real-life situations. It has evolved to be used by mental health professionals, employing both fiction and non-fiction, and addressing a range of issues from behavioral problems to chronic illness. Recent research highlights bibliotherapy's effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depression in cancer patients. However, challenges in its evaluation exist due to its subjective nature and varied methodologies. Despite these challenges, its effectiveness, particularly in fiction, is acknowledged. In conclusion, bibliotherapy presents a promising but still developing field, requiring further research, especially in fiction's use. It holds significant potential in improving the emotional wellbeing of oncology patients when applied by skilled and supervised practitioners.