Digital Storytelling as a Psychosocial Tool (2019)

(Mike was the Digital Storytelling facilitator and research assistant for this project)

Abstract

Purpose: To understand the meaning and impact for adult patients with cancer (past or present) of creating a digital story related to their cancer experience.

Participants & Setting: Ten participants made digital stories with the help of a research assistant trained in digital storytelling. This research took place in a large, urban center in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Methodological approach: This research was done in the tradition of philosophical hermeneutics. Ten one-on-one interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using an interpretive qualitative methodology.

Findings: Findings revealed that digital stories were cathartic; reconnected individuals with family, friends, and parts of their lives that had been interrupted from cancer therapy; helped participants reflect in a way that was often described as therapeutic; and bridged communication with others about their cancer experiences.

Implications for Nursing: Digital stories can be used to highlight the immense psychosocial impact of cancer and point healthcare professionals and other researchers toward creative and nontraditional ways to address this issue.

Laing, C. M., Moules, N. J., Sinclair, S., & Estefan, A. (2019). Digital Storytelling as a Psychosocial Tool for Adult Cancer Survivors. Oncol Nurs Forum, 46(2), 147-154. doi: 10.1188/19.Onf.147-154