Risking involvement with cancer patients.

The helping relationship has been identified by Brammer (1988) as central to the practice of nursing. This study explored the process of developing special relationships with cancer patients. Interviews were conducted with 32 nursing personnel. The grounded theory method of constant comparative analysis was selected for this investigation. An open-ended interview guide explored the difference between the usual relationships nurses had and the special relationships they formed with selected patients. A basic psychosocial process, "risking involvement" in special relationships with cancer patients, was identified. The willingness to risk involvement took the forms of resisting involvement or practicing involvement.