Religiosity and Hope: A Path for Women Coping With a Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

Background: Both religiosity and hope are known for their positive role in coping with cancer. Objective: This study examines the mediating role of hope between religiosity and coping for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Method: Israeli Jewish women with breast cancer (N = 233) completed the Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale, The Systems of Belief Inventory, and The Hope Scale. Results: By use of hierarchical regression, hope was found to be a mediator between religiosity and three coping styles. Conclusion: Special attention should be given to the role of hope for religious patients because it increases the positive effects of religion in coping with cancer. (Psychosomatics 2009; 50: 525-533)