OBJECTIVE: Satisfaction with abilities and perceived importance of abilities are 2 factors involved in the process of self-evaluation. We examined the role that these factors play in adjustment to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS: Data were collected, via telephone interview and mailed questionnaire, from 234 individuals with recently diagnosed RA. Disease severity information was obtained from participants' physicians. RESULTS: Consistent with study hypotheses, satisfaction was associated with psychological well-being only among those who viewed as very important the abilities being evaluated. CONCLUSION: These findings increase understanding of the conditions under which low levels of satisfaction are likely to be associated with psychological distress.