[Understanding of and coping possibilities in chronic rheumatoid arthritis in a family setting].

Results of a Swiss study dealing with the coping potential of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and their family members are presented. Patients and their families have their own understanding of rheumatic disease which must be respected by the physicians. Whereas women are prone to suffer in a passive manner, men more often tend to be more heroic. It is recommendable to counsel occasionally family members of rheumatic patients to diminish stress and to give precise informations to protect from over-responsibility.