Perceptions of control in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Forty patients with rheumatoid arthritis were randomly recruited from an outpatient population for an in-depth, qualitative interview. The aim was to identify factors that influence whether patients feel they have any control over their condition. The data were analysed using Colaizzi's procedural steps. Four major categories that positively influence perceptions of control were identified. These were the reduction of physical symptoms, the matching of social support with perceived need, the provision of information, and the nature of the clinical consultation.