Social effects of rheumatism on the family

Summary

The relationship between family background and rheumatism is uncertain and, although some research findings suggest that there might be a correlation between the socioeconomic and educational status of the family and the disease, the evidence is inconclusive. It has been suggested that the childhood home of the future arthritic patient is cold and strictly disciplined, that the patient did not have a clear and safe model for identification, and that this situation resulted in a permanent inner insecurity, autonomic overactivity, covert psychic lability and overtly a control of emotions. It is presumed that the permanent tension, both psychical and physiological, contributes to the appearance of symptoms. Psychic dependence, expressed as a masculine protest reaction, irritability and resentment as a way of expressing aggression among arthritic wives, and pseudo-communication between family members are some of the findings on family relationships in the ‘rheuma family’. The effects on the patient and family of the disease developing in different age groups is briefly discussed. It is stressed that there is a need for further international research to provide information on the psychosocial factors involved so that practical measures can be developed to provide better overall management and help for patient and family.

Key Words::

• Rheumatism
• social environment
• family
• interpersonal relations
• psychophysiology