Abstract :
[en] This article focuses on the relationship
between defence mechanisms, coping strategies,
palliative attitude, and the well-being of caregivers in
palliative care units, who are confronted with death,
suffering, and pain. They use many different defence
mechanisms; however, studies linking their coping
strategies and defence mechanisms are rare. This
study uses a quantitative and qualitative design and is
based on 18 caregivers (nurses) in 2 palliative care
units in Belgium. Defence mechanisms are tested
through a semi-structured interview, TAT, and DSQ-60.
Coping strategies are evaluated through a semistructured
interview, COPE, and WCQ. To maximize
our global approach, coping strategies and defence
mechanisms are associated with measures of wellbeing
and palliative attitude. We determined that
defence mechanisms and coping strategies should not
be seen as obstacles to professional practices.
Palliative caregivers are more likely to adopt “mature”
and “mental inhibition and compromise formation”
defence mechanisms, as well as “emotion-focused”
and “problem-focused” coping strategies. Defence
mechanisms are more unconscious and constitute
appropriate answers in extreme emotional situations.
Coping strategies allow for more conscious processes
of adaptation to the environment of palliative care units.
This study shows positive relationships between different
defence mechanisms and coping strategies, palliative
attitudes, and caregivers’ well-being. Institutions
should improve the conditions for group exchange and
for caregivers’ individual introspection so that caregivers
develop adapted capacities to cope with anxiety.
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