PERSONAL EXPERIENCE GROWTH IN CANCER SURVIVOR
ABSTRACT: Riskesdas data in 2013 mentioned that cancer ranks third most causes of death in Indonesia. Cancer is seen as a turning point that affects the personal growth of individuals. Furthermore, this study aimed to describes the personal experience growth in cancer survivors. Theoretical framework of this study is personal growth, which is one aspect of psychological wellbeing. Personal growth is the optimal functioning of the individual to continue to grow, expand potentials owned, grown and developed in a sustainable manner in the face of adversity or hardship. Data were collected by interview and observation. Data analysis methods using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). This research is about how to interpret cancer survivor life experiences, and the researchers studied a new experience that refers to personal growth experience of a cancer survivor. Researchers do not limit the study participants to define and interpret personal growth. The results showed that the three participants interpret personal growth as a spiritual journey that makes their behavior and beliefs in God grow better. Moreover, participants have a better quality of life, closer to family, having concern for others, and each phase is passed requiring insight to growth
