Applied Psychology

Applied Psychology

The Structural Impact of Acceptance and Commitment Processes on Demoralization in Cancer Patients: Mediating Roles of Post-Traumatic Growth and Depreciation

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mohammad Mahdi Hassanpour-Dehkordi 1
Isaac Rahimian-Boogar 2
1 MSc student in Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran.
2 Associate Professor of Health Psychology, Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran.
10.48308/apsy.2026.242663.1944
Abstract
Aim: This study examined the structural relationship between acceptance and commitment processes and demoralization in cancer patients, with post-traumatic growth and post-traumatic depreciation as mediating variables.
 
Method: This correlational study included 260 cancer patients attending Omid Hospital in Isfahan during spring and summer 2024. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Process Scale, the Demoralization Scale, and the Expanded Post-traumatic Growth and Depreciation Questionnaire. Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling were performed using Amos-26.
 
Results: Acceptance and commitment processes showed a significant negative association with demoralization (p < 0.001). Post-traumatic growth and post-traumatic depreciation significantly mediated the relationship between acceptance and commitment processes and demoralization (p < 0.001). The proposed model demonstrated acceptable fit indices.
 
Conclusion: Acceptance and commitment processes influence demoralization both directly and indirectly through trauma-related psychological outcomes. Interventions that strengthen psychological flexibility and promote post-traumatic growth may help reduce demoralization in cancer patients and improve psychological adaptation to illness.
Keywords
Acceptance and Commitment
Demoralization
Post-Traumatic Growth
Post-Traumatic Depreciation
Cancer
Subjects
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