I’ve had a good life, what’s left is a bonus: Factor analysis of the Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale in a palliative care population

Background:The Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale is an assessment tool commonly used to measure coping in cancer patients, which characterises adaptive coping under the label of ‘fighting spirit’.Aim:This study explores adaptation in patients with advanced cancer, by examining the factor structure of the Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale. Further aims were to examine associations between types of coping and psychological outcomes measured at the same time (time 1) and 4 weeks after referral to palliative care services (time 2).Design:A cross-sectional study with a follow-up assessment 4 weeks later. Factor analysis examined the structure of the Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale at time 1.Setting/participants:A total of 275 patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative care, of whom 193 took part at follow-up.Results:This study provided evidence for the internal consistency and validity of a new scale of ‘acceptance and positivity’ for use in advanced cancer patients. Patients with a desire for hasten...