Purpose: This study aims to explore a clear and evidence-based definition of adaptive behavior in stroke
survivors and establish the antecedents, attributes, consequences, and empirical referents of the concept.
Methods: The concept analysis was performed using theWalker and Avant method as a framework. Data
from 90 publications were collected using various databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, RISS, and KISS)
and applied in the analysis.
Results: Adaptive behavior in stroke survivors was defined according to four attributes: realizing change,
taking an optimistic view, restructuring daily activities to suit oneself, and carrying out one's own daily
life. The conceptual structure of their adaptive behavior comprised stroke onset, functional changes, and
emotional liability as antecedents and autonomy, family equilibrium, and quality of life as consequences.
Conclusions: Clarifying the concept of adaptive behavior in stroke survivors provides an understanding of
the underlying attributes of this concept. Furthermore, it will facilitate the development of scales to
measure the concept and the application of a theory-based intervention program that can improve
adaptive behavior.