Respiratory disorders have a severe impact on the daily lives of patients and their families. Increasingly, medical practitioners are recognizing psychological factors in the assessment and management of disorders such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis and tuberculosis. Researchers are studying the interplay between medical treatment, patients' perceptions and management of their illness and the medical, psychological and social outcomes. This book can stimulate more collaborative work between psychologists, physicians, nurses, health educators, physiotherapists and patients. Medics, nurses and other clinical practitioners will also find it useful.