| Abstract: | A group method of psychosocial intervention (a "school") has been developed for post-myocardial infarction patients and their families in order to build up positive attitudes to medical recommendations. The efficiency of the school as well as the social and psychologic factors involved were assessed using the multifactorial scale of psychosocial changes, and 16PF, and "polar profiles" tests, and Leary's method, in 27 post-myocardial infarction patients (mean age 49.8 years) and their 12 wives. It was demonstrated that the patients' attitudes to medical recommendations became more positive, as compared to a control group; moreover, this positive quality persisted over long-term follow-up. Certain personality features (self-image, psychological makeup) affecting the patient's observance of medical advice were demonstrated which should be considered in planning the rehabilitation strategy for myocardial infarction patients. The results indicate that patients' wives should also be enrolled in the group effort. |
