ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we review the models or theoretical approaches that have been used to describe and understand treatment adherence. Space constraints prevent us from reviewing every model, so we have selected those that have received the most attention and empirical support. For each, we describe the model, review empirical evidence for the model, and review applications to treatment adherence. We next discuss suggested strategies providers and researchers can use to encourage adherence based on the model’s theoretical constructs. We conclude by discussing challenges with existing theories and models and suggest why and how the theories might be integrated to gain a better understanding of treatment adherence.
