Date of Conferral
6-28-2024
Date of Award
June 2024
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Psychology
Advisor
Ethel Perry
Abstract
This study investigated the stigmatization experienced by young women in college due to chemotherapy-induced hair loss. Previous research primarily focused on older women, adolescents, and men, leaving a gap in understanding the impact on young college-age women. Using Goffman’s theory of stigma and Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method, six young women were interviewed confidentially. The primary research question asked what is the experience of stigma in young women in college who have hair loss during or following chemotherapy cancer treatment? The study revealed that these women often faced being ostracized by peers, received minimal family support, and experienced distressing scrutiny from others, leading to identity crises and significant emotional distress. These findings highlight the need for higher education institutions to better support young women undergoing chemotherapy. Moreover, this study’s findings support positive social change by informing and recommending healthcare professionals to provide tailored support to these young women and prepare them for the social challenges that will face them due to chemotherapy-induced hair loss.
Recommended Citation
Blair, Challna, "The Lived Experience of Stigmatization Due to Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss for Young Women With Cancer Who Attend College" (2024). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 15983.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/15983
