Abstract
BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer for women in Nigeria, representing 25% of all cancers in women. How do women self-identify with the new realities of living with breast cancer before, during and after treatment? AIMS: This study aims to examine the self-identities of 22 women with breast cancer in Nigeria. METHODS: The paper relies on grounded theory research method to collect data, analyse and capture the processes of self-identity formation. RESULTS: The qualitative data analysis reveals the basic social process within symbolic interactionism that describes how breast cancer survivors perceive their agency and how new self-identities emerged from the new normal of living with breast cancer. A framework of three self-identities emerged from the data: (1) valued self-identity before breast cancer, (2) dependent and determined self-identities during treatment and (3) devalued self-identity post-treatment. CONCLUSION: This study should help caregivers understand the profound perpetual psycho-emotional impact that breast cancer has on sufferers and survivors.