We aim to describe the reactions of women confronting mastectomy, and the feelings that emerged from group interaction. 10 women from the GEPAM group (Teaching, Research, Self-help and Assistance to Mastectomized Women Group) were interviewed in November and December 2001 and January 2002. Reactions in the face of mastectomy can be singled out as: depression, discrimination, adoption of new behavior and the need for social interaction. Group interaction revealed feelings of friendship and curiosity. These aspects lead us to understand that group activities are important in minimizing the conflicts associated with mastectomy and also in valuing of the feelings of these women, to provide more effective rehabilitation and better quality of life.
behavior; breast cancer; group activities; mastectomized women