Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between mental adjustment mechanisms and somatic symptoms in cancer survivors, a topic with limited research in Psycho-oncology. Methods: In this exploratory cross-sectional study, 88 cancer patients were surveyed using the Somatic Symptoms Scale (SSS-8), the Somatic Symptom Disorder Scale (SSD-12), and the MiniMental Adjustment to Cancer Scale (MINI-MAC). Additional questions were asked regarding cancer stage, treatment, and illness relapses. Data collection occurred over one month at a local oncology unit. Results: Several significant correlations were observed between the scales and subscales of the instruments applied during this study. The most important results showed that maladaptive adjustment mechanisms were significantly associated with somatic symptoms, while adaptive mechanisms were not. However, "fighting spirit," an adaptive mechanism, acted as a moderator between somatic symptoms and their psychological impact (effect size t = 0.157, p < 0.05). Lower "fighting spirit" scores correlated with higher SSS-8 and SSD-12 scores, indicating its potential protective role. Conclusion: A more specific assessment of somatic symptoms and their link to mental adaptation to cancer is needed. Psycho-oncological interventions should address both adaptive and maladaptive adjustment mechanisms due to their significant influence on patient outcomes.
Effective communication is essential in healthcare, prompting the inclusion of communication courses in medical education. However, the effectiveness of such courses for Romanian medical students has not been evaluated. This pilot study investigates the impact of an ethical communication course on Romanian medical students' communication self-efficacy, communication skills, and the perceived importance of communication. Students attended a 3-month course on ethical communication, covering active listening, assertive communication, conflict management, non-verbal communication, patient- centered care, and ethical considerations in various medical fields. The course was developed based on the European Psychiatric Association guide regarding ethical aspects of communication with patients and their families. The data were analyzed on a sample of 24 students who completed the questionnaires at pretest and posttest. Students reported higher levels of medical communication self-efficacy and perceived importance of medical communication after the course. However, no statistically significant differences were found in health professionals’ communication skills. Future courses should include more patient interactions and varied teaching methods. Further research with larger samples and control groups is needed.
