ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how people cope with chronic illness, with a particular focus on the elderly because they are the ones most likely to be afflicted. Chronic illness is a victimization experience that poses particular threats to self-esteem because it brings about lasting changes in the physical self. Physical appearance, physical capabilities, vocational and recreational interests, and relationships are all defining aspects of one's identify. It addresses the damage to self-worth and the restoration of self-esteem following chronic illness. The chapter discusses three primary mechanisms by which the individual afflicted with chronic illness can restore self-esteem: social comparison, denial, and deriving meaning from the experience. Although social comparison provides an opportunity to increase self-esteem, the extent to which someone engages in social comparison actually may represent greater psychological distress. Research has emphasized the difficulties encountered during chronic illness and overlooked the potential for positive effects. The benefits from chronic illness constitute a promising path for future research.
