The impact of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on the families of people with the disease is poorly understood. A qualitative study was undertaken on 22 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, their respective well partners and their 40 children. For most children the effect of living with a parent suffering from a painful, chronic illness was not detrimental, but a minority suffered verbal and physical abuse. The disease had wide-ranging effects on sexual and working relationships, but marriage to a partner with RA did not result in a threat to the relationship for the majority. Recommendations for future practice are made.