ASSESSING CHRONIC ILLNESS REPRESENTATIONS - THE IMPLICIT MODELS OF ILLNESS QUESTIONNAIRE

Data were collected from three samples using the Implicit Models of il lness Questionnaire (IMIQ) to assess illness representations as descri bed in the self-regulation model of common sense illness representatio ns. A factor structure was identified which displayed some similaritie s to the common sense model. This structure was used to examine illnes s representations of students and patients concerning three illnesses- rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), and human immunode ficiency virus (HIV). Representations differed across illnesses and re spondent status (patient vs. student). Students rated individuals as h aving more personal responsibility for RA or MS than did patients; mor eover; the difference between patient/student ratings was greater with respect to MS than if was for RA. Patients were more aware of the var iable nature of RA and MS symptoms than were students. This study demo nstrates the value of the IMIQ as a tool for assessing illness cogniti ons and suggests that illness representations differ as a function of personal experience and personal relevance.