Social Representations of Cancer among Nursing Students

The aim of this research was to investigate the social representations of cancer among nursing care students (N = 101) in relation with other psychological variables: locus of control, unrealistic optimism and the estimated magnitude of perceived risk. The data was collected through a free association task and questionnaires. The results shed light upon the deadly, frightening and painful component of the disease, as held by nursing care students, and also highlighted the particular influence of psychological variables. These results offer opportunities for delineating the framework of future therapeutic communication, allowing at the same time a greater awareness of the implications to the caregivers. Additionally the study provides evidence about the psychosocial implications of representations which are linked to the therapeutic relationship.