Introduction

In the occurrence of negative and positive consequences of experienced traumatic events, an important role is attributed to the basic (key) beliefs regarding the world and one’s own person, as well as the undertaken remedial activity.

The aim of the study

The research was aimed at determining what role in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and posttraumatic growth in cancer patients play disruptions in basic beliefs and coping strategies with the disease.

Material and methods

The results obtained from 60 people struggling with cancer (breast, prostate, lung), aged 30–79 years (M = 62.5, SD = 10.84) were analyzed. Half of the respondents were men and half women. The studies used the Posttraumatic Stress Disorders Checklist – PCL-5, the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory – PTGI, the Core Beliefs Inventory – CBI and the Mini Mental Adjustment to Cancer – Mini-Mac.

Results and conclusions

Destructive strategies of coping with cancer were associated with PTSD symptoms, while disruptions in basic beliefs with posttraumatic growth. Anxious preoccupation played a predictive role for PTSD. The predictor of growth after trauma were disruptions in basic beliefs. Destructive coping strategies play a key role in the occurrence of PTSD symptoms. In turn, disruptions in key beliefs are important for the occurrence of growth after trauma. Modification of basic beliefs and the use of constructive strategies for coping with the disease may have a significant meaning in the process of adaptation to trauma in cancer patients.