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The portfolio has three parts: Part 1 is a systematic literature review, in which the theoretical, conceptual and empirical literature relating to the relationship between illness perceptions, mood and quality of life in coronary heart disease populations is reviewed. The results of this study provide support that illness perceptions are related to outcomes across CHD populations and disease progression, however the results do not selectively support one particular model. Recommendations are consistent with cardiac rehabilitation guidelines. Further research should focus on the systemic impact of illness perceptions. Part 2 is divided into two empirical papers: Paper 1 utilises a qualitative methodology to explore refractory angina patients' experiences of undergoing EECP, and their lives before and after the treatment. The study adds to existing literature by proposing that the process of undergoing EECP treatment not only leads to physiological improvement, but also effects psychological pathways, through providing hope, establishing a therapeutic relationship and increasing confidence and self-efficacy to confront positive and challenging health-behaviour changes. Paper 2 utilises a quantitative methodology to explore the relationship between illness perceptions, mood and quality of life in chronic refractory angina patients that have undergone EECP treatment. The current study supports constructs from relevant models; the self-regulatory model, theory of planned behaviour and an adapted version of the fear-avoidance model. A possible model demonstrating the process between illness perceptions and outcomes specific for chronic refractory angina patients is proposed. Future research could focus on concomitant interventions to improve physical and psychological outcomes, for example the Angina Plan could be delivered in conjunction with EECP to establish an integrated, multidisciplinary model of care and service delivery. Part 3 comprises the appendices. This includes a reflective statement and supplementary information relevant to all three papers.

This portfolio thesis comprises of three parts: a systematic literature review, an empirical report and appendices. Part one is a systematic literature review in which literature relating to the empirical paper is reviewed. Insufficient studies into hope in cardiac populations exist so the search was broadened to hope in chronic physical illness. The review attempts to determine what the strongest and most consistent correlated variables with hope are in chronic illness populations. Links to theory and recommendations for future research are then made. Part two is an empirical paper which includes two complementary studies. Study one aimed to test the hypothesis, what are the statistical predictors of hope. A range of variables were assessed to allow regression analysis with hope as the predicted variable. Study two explored the experiences of individuals living with cardiovascular disease and what made them hopeful about the future. The results of the two studies were formulated together to propose an understanding of the predictive processes present in hope. Part three comprises appendices and a reflective statement which draws on personal experience of and reflection on the research process.