Fear of Cancer in a Rural Appalachian Community Following Notification of an Environmental Hazard

Abstract

In this chapter we explore some of the intriguing questions raised by contaminated communities. Is there a connection between exposure to environmental hazards and psychological distress? If yes, how best can it be measured? What kinds of psychological problems are aggravated by this kind of life stress? How do we know that victims are truly experiencing increased problems such as anxiety, depression and fears about their health?

Citation

Hastrup, J.L., Thomas, S.N. and Edelstein, M.R. (2007), "Fear of Cancer in a Rural Appalachian Community Following Notification of an Environmental Hazard", Edelstein, M.R., Tysiachniouk, M. and Smirnova, L.V. (Ed.) Cultures of Contamination (Research in Social Problems and Public Policy, Vol. 14), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 93-115. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0196-1152(06)14005-3