Self-regulation theory and coping with physical illness

A self‐regulation theory of how patients cope with events that occur during physical illness that has received substantial support from research is described. The theory challenges some traditional thinking about providing patients information and patients' emotional responses to threatening health care events. The use of the theory in practice and suggestions for research to further develop the theory are discussed. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Res Nurs Health 22:435–448, 1999