Toward a cognitive-affective model of goal-setting in rehabilitation: is self-regulation theory a key step?
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this article is to argue that self-regulation theory might offer a useful model for clinical practice, theory-building and empirical research on goal-setting in rehabilitation.


METHODS
Relevant literature on goal-setting and motivation in rehabilitation is considered and some problematic issues for current practice and future research are highlighted. Carver and Scheier's self-regulation theory and its application to rehabilitation research is examined.


RESULTS
It is argued that self-regulation theory offers a robust theoretical framework for goal-setting and one in which the salient concepts of motivation and emotion are prominent.


CONCLUSIONS
Self-regulation theory offers a potentially useful heuristic framework for rehabilitation research.
Siegert
Richard J
RJ
Rehabilitation Teaching and Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Wellington School of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand. rsiegert@wnmeds.ac.nz
McPherson
Kathryn M
KM
Taylor
William J
WJ
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004644:Emotions; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009042:Motivation