Which factors contribute to changes in self-concept for a patient suffering from osteoarthritis?

The correct answer is based on the understanding that chronic illness significantly impacts a patient's self-concept. For individuals suffering from osteoarthritis, the persistent pain and limitations in mobility lead to challenges in performing daily activities, which can alter how they perceive themselves. This debilitating condition may cause feelings of inadequacy or loss of control, contributing to a negative self-image.

Chronic illnesses can also influence how others perceive and interact with the patient, further exacerbating issues related to self-concept. Awareness of the limitations imposed by osteoarthritis can strip away long-held self-identities tied to physical ability and independence, leading to a reevaluation of self-worth and identity in relation to their health status.

While self-absorption, dependency on others, and loss of job identity can also be relevant to a patient's experience, the primary factor influencing changes in self-concept in the context of osteoarthritis is the chronic nature of the illness itself. This chronic condition serves as the foundation upon which other psychosocial factors may develop, shaping the overall self-concept of the patient.