Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
Appraisal and coping responses to pain and stress in migraine headache sufferers
H J Hassinger1, E M Semenchuk, W H O'Brien
1Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, Ohio 43403-0228, USA.
The purpose of this study was to investigate how migraine headache sufferers and headache-free controls differ in their appraisal and coping responses to a cognitive (mental arithmetic) and a physical (cold pressor) laboratory stressor. Fifty-two women (26 migraine headache and 26 controls) completed the study. Results indicated that migraine sufferers rated the cold pressor task as significantly more painful compared to headache-free participants. Migraine headache sufferers also reported more wishful thinking and self-criticism in managing the mental arithmetic stressor. In addition, migraine participants reported the use of more social withdrawal and catastrophizing in managing stress and pain outside of the laboratory.
The purpose of this study was to investigate how migraine headache sufferers and headache-free controls differ in their appraisal and coping responses to a cognitive (mental arithmetic) and a physical (cold pressor) laboratory stressor. Fifty-two women (26 migraine headache and 26 controls) completed the study. Results indicated that migraine sufferers rated the cold pressor task as significantly more painful compared to headache-free participants. Migraine headache sufferers also reported more wishful thinking and self-criticism in managing the mental arithmetic stressor. In addition, migraine participants reported the use of more social withdrawal and catastrophizing in managing stress and pain outside of the laboratory.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
Psychological Responses to Stress
Lazarus's Cognitive Appraisal Theory
Primary Appraisal:...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...

