The Behavioral Management of the Cardiac Patient

This volume provides a scientifically-based text for clinical psychologists and others engaged in the extended, non-medical care of the patient recovering from myocardial infarction. The first chapter provides an overview of the patho-physiology and distribution of myocardial infarction for those not trained in medicine, and subsequent chapters go on to discuss outcomes and their determinants after heart attack. Emphasis is placed on emotional and behavioral responses to myocardial infarction since the book adopts the view that these play important roles in determining patterns of cardiological, occupational, and social outcomes. The book then proceeds to a systematic coverage of those areas where behavior has been empirically shown to influence outcome, and of the literature documenting the modification of these behaviors.