Self, social structure, and health-promoting behavior in hypertensive patients

A description is presented of views on coping with stress due to chronic, socio-emotionally distressing conditions in the course of hypertension. Four theoretical approaches are discussed, and illustrated by recent studies: 1. lack of support, 2. relative deprivation, 3. job strain, 4. effort-reward imbalance. The implications for stress management and patient education are discussed.