Goal setting, motivation and wellbeing after breast cancer

When motives meet goals: Examining Implicit–Explicit Motive Congruence as a Predictor of Depression and Well-Being in Breast Cancer Survivors.

Theories about motivation suggest that people are guided by different kinds of motives. People have deliberate goals that they set, which can be shaped by values or life experiences. But we’re also driven by unconscious desires or needs which we may not be aware of. These motives, and how well they align with each other, can influence our wellbeing.

After a major life event, like breast cancer, people often find that what’s important to them changes. This can lead to a change in priorities or goals. This study is exploring how motivations and goals can influence wellbeing after for people who’ve experienced breast cancer.

This study isn’t looking for ‘ideal’ ways of coping or pursuing goals. Instead, the researchers want to understand the real experiences of people living beyond primary breast cancer.

Name of project lead: Noel Kei

Job title: Trainee Clinical Psychologist

Organisation: University of Exeter

Email address: nk514@exeter.ac.uk

You can take part if you’ve had a diagnosis of primary breast cancer and completed active treatment between 6 months and 5 years ago.

By taking part, you can help researchers better understand what factors can impact someone’s wellbeing after primary breast cancer.

They hope that they can develop advice for practitioners on how to support patients to set goals after breast cancer that align with their values and underlying needs. This could lead to better wellbeing and quality of life.

The researchers would like you to complete an anonymous online survey. 

The survey will ask you to give some information about you such as your age and ethnicity. You’ll then be shown 6 photos and be asked to write a short story, based on each photo. You’ll then be asked about what goals you have that are important to you.

As a thank you for your time, you’ll receive a £10 voucher once you’ve completed the survey. After you press ‘Submit’ to your survey responses, you will be taken to an online form where you can provide an email address for to the researchers to send out the vouchers. This will not be connected to the survey responses and cannot be traced back to you. 

Please complete the online survey. Before completing the survey, you’ll be asked some screening questions to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. You’ll also be asked to read the participation information sheet and complete the consent form before taking the survey.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact Noel at nk514@exeter.ac.uk.

31 January 2027