Lo, Chris (2018) A developmental perspective on existential distress and adaptation to advanced disease. Psycho-Oncology, 27 (11). pp. 2657-2660.

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Abstract

- The confrontation with death imposed by advanced cancer or other illness can trigger existential concerns about the meaning and value of life.

- From an Eriksonian perspective, the ability to come to terms with the end of life is influenced by one's developmental history and life stage prior to illness.

- The experience of advanced disease may re-awaken for some patients developmental issues that they had thought long resolved, as physical deterioration removes functional capacities in a manner reminiscent of a reversal of early development.

- The threat of mortality may accelerate individuals through the latter stages of human development to engage in a process of life review, for whom those at earlier stages of psychosocial development are less prepared to undergo.

- Generativity may offer protection against existential distress, because the sense of meaning in life may often reside in feelings of nurturance and contribution to others.

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