Comparative Studies of Psychological Function in Patients With Advanced Cancer II. Interviewer-Rated Current and Past Psychological Symptoms

This study compared psychological adjustment in 80 hospitalized cancer patients & 80 attempted suicides utilizing the CAPPS Interview Schedule. Significant findings were: cancer patients demonstrated better psychological adjustment (past & current); less anxiety, suicidal ideation & depression (no significant relationship between nearness of death & depression); more use of the defense mechanisms of denial & repression.(NBB)