Illness Behavior

Society establishes both formal and informal guidelines that influence the behavior of its members. The behavior of an individual with a chronic condition is shaped by these societal influences as well. The individual who fully recovers from an illness returns to prior behaviors and roles. However, when there is only partial recovery or continuing illness, as with a chronic disease, the individual has to modify or adapt previous behavior and roles to accommodate societal expectations, their own expectations, and their health status. This chapter provides an overview of the illness experience and corresponding behavior demonstrated by those with chronic illness. It is not meant to be a comprehensive review of the entire body of knowledge, which is vast. Historical Perspectives