Personal convictions and occupational perspective in women from the dimensión rosa foundation of Cúcuta

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the leading public health problems worldwide due to its high incidence and mortality rates. In addition to the physical effects derived from the disease and its treatments, women experience emotional, social, and occupational changes that may affect their well-being and quality of life. From the perspective of occupational therapy, personal convictions and occupational perspective are fundamental elements for understanding adaptation, participation, and meaning-making processes in the face of illness. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of personal convictions on the occupational perspective of women diagnosed with breast cancer who belong to the Rosa Dimension Foundation in the city of Cúcuta. Methodology: A quantitative, cross-sectional, and descriptive study was conducted. The sample consisted of forty women diagnosed with breast cancer and linked to the Rosa Dimension Foundation. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Volitional Questionnaire (VQ) based on Kielhofner’s Model of Human Occupation, and a Likert-type scale designed to assess occupational perspective according to Ann Wilcock’s dimensions were applied. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests with SPSS version 29. Results: Most participants were women over 55 years old, from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and dedicated to household activities. Within personal convictions, the “hesitant” category predominated (50porcentaj), revealing difficulties related to initiative, challenge-seeking, and sustaining occupational participation. However, occupational perspective showed elevated levels (77.5 porcentaj), especially regarding personal meaning, motivation, and occupational projection. Statistical analyses showed no significant relationship between the variables. Consequently, the null hypothesis was accepted, concluding that personal convictions do not significantly influence the occupational perspective of the participants. Discussion: Although no statistically significant influence was found between the variables, participants maintained a favorable occupational perspective, mediated by factors such as social support, coping strategies, and institutional accompaniment. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening adaptive processes and meaningful participation through occupational therapy interventions in women with breast cancer.