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Objectives: Finding positive changes in the aftermath of breast cancer (BC) may protect women against impaired adjustment. This study examines posttraumatic growth (PTG) in a sample of women receiving treatment for BC and explores the buffering role of PTG on the links between perceived impact of BC and emotional distress and quality of life (QoL).

Methods: Seventy‐eight women receiving chemotherapy (n = 57) or radiotherapy (n = 21) completed the Portuguese versions of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the World Health Organization for QoL‐Bref and Consequences sub‐scale of the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (assessing perceived impact of BC).

Results: PTG was frequently reported and co‐existed with distress and dysfunction. A more negative perception of the impact of BC was significantly associated with higher emotional distress and …