The present study examines the influence of direction of comparison (upward v. downward), perceptions of control over the course and symptoms of arthritis, and future similarity, or an individual's assessment of the likelihood of experiencing similar outcomes to the comparison other, on affective responses to social comparisons in arthritis patients. Subjects completed a battery of questionnaires that assess depression, self-esteem, physical status, perceptions of control over the course and symptoms of arthritis, and mood and were then presented with vignettes about another patient who was either doing well or poorly. Perceptions of future similarity to the comparison other were then assessed. Results supported the contention that perceived control is the primary predictor of affective responses to social comparisons. Direction of comparison and perceived future similarity did not predict mood change. Implications for the role of individual difference variables in predicting responses to social comparisons are discussed.