A Grounded Theory Study of Truth-Telling in Cancer

Abstract

Truth-telling about life-threatening cancer illness is a controversial matter. Few studies have explored attitudes towards truth-telling among people from migrant communities living in cultures different to their own. The purpose of this grounded theory study was to explore the perceptions of white British and British south Asian community workers within the Metropolitan Borough of Walsall as to the factors that influence truth-telling. In-depth, focused interviews were carried out with a sample of 20 key informants. A theoretical model was developed which describes the factors that lead to an imperative for family to act as gate-keepers of information exchange. The model describes the strategies used and the narrower and broader contexts in which they take place. The implications for practice are discussed and directions for further research are highlighted.