Positive psychological constructs and health behavior adherence in heart failure: A qualitative research study.

The study was qualitative, so it cannot show that positive constructs cause better adherence or that an intervention would work. All participants were recruited from inpatient units at one academic medical center, and the sample was mostly women and White, so it may not represent other settings or groups. Most participants had New York Heart Association class III symptoms, so people with milder heart failure may experience things differently. Only 25 of 30 completed the 3-month interview; one withdrew, three could not be reached and one died. The interview guide prompted positive constructs, which may have increased the likelihood of hearing links between positive feelings and health behaviors. Only 61% of transcripts were independently coded by two or more coders. The initial interview could be in person or by phone, which may have affected what participants discussed. The paper did not report the substantial negative emotional experiences of the participants.

The authors report no relevant conflicts of interest. No funding source is stated in the supplied text.

Do not conclude that improving gratitude, hope or optimism will improve heart failure adherence or outcomes. The study only reported what patients said about these feelings and behaviors; it did not test an intervention.