International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Alexithymia, Emotional Complexity, And Treatment Compliance in Oral Oncology Patients

Cancer is one of the most significant health concerns across the globe, which affects not only the physical condition of the patient but also their mental condition. Among cancer patients, oral oncology patients face severe emotional disturbances due to the nature of the illness, treatment, and prognosis of their condition. The psychological aspects of alexithymia, emotional complexity, and compliance with treatment are important factors that play a major role in how cancer patients cope with their health status and how they respond to health advice. Alexithymia, which means patients are unable to express their emotions, is one of the psychological aspects commonly associated with cancer patients in relation to their emotional status and health outcomes. Alexithymia patients may face difficulty in communicating their emotional condition, which may influence their behaviour during treatment procedures. In contrast, emotional complexity is defined as the ability to feel, differentiate, and regulate multiple emotional states. Increased emotional awareness and adaptive coping skills are related to increased psychological resilience and better adherence to a regimen or treatment plan. Previous research in the area of psycho-oncology has shown that emotional factors play a significant role in the level of compliance with a regimen or treatment plan and quality of life in cancer patients. However, few studies have explored the relationship between alexithymia, emotional complexity, and regimen compliance, especially in oral oncology patients. The psychological mechanisms behind these factors may provide a better understanding of the design of a psychosocial intervention aimed at improving emotional well-being and regimen compliance. Keywords: Alexithymia, Emotional complexity, Treatment compliance, Oral cancer, Cancer