Common Sense Model of Illness & Treatments

Question 1

What are the components of Illness Perceptions?

Answer 1

• Identity - symptoms; label of the disease
• Consequences - possible effects on their life
• Timeline - how long the illness will last
• Cause - biological, phychosocial (stress)
• Cure/controllability

Question 2

Can illness perception change?

Answer 2

Yes

Question 3

How do inaccurate perception of illnesses impact medication adherence?

Answer 3

If symptoms are present, people feel motivated to take their medications
If symptoms are absent, people don’t feel motivated/forget to take their medications

Question 4

What are the top 3 common concerns about treatments?

Answer 4

• Patients not getting enough information
• Afraid of long-term effects
• Afraid of become dependent on medication