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Pain and emotion: new research directions
F J Keefe1, M Lumley, T Anderson
1Pain Prevention and Treatment Research, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. keefe003@mc.duke.edu
Journal of Clinical Psychology
|March 20, 2001
Summary
This review explores the intricate link between pain and emotions, covering stress, negative feelings, and pain catastrophizing. It highlights how emotional distress impacts pain perception and treatment-seeking behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Pain Research
Background:
- Growing scientific interest in the connection between pain and emotional states.
- Numerous studies have investigated the interplay between psychological factors and pain perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an introduction to the relationship between pain and emotion.
- To highlight key research areas connecting emotional states and pain.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of selected research topics.
- Synthesis of studies on stress, negative emotions, catastrophizing, fear of pain, and emotional regulation in relation to pain.
Main Results:
- Emotional states like stress and negative affect are significantly linked to pain experiences.
- Pain catastrophizing and fear of pain exacerbate pain perception.
- Emotional distress influences help-seeking behaviors for pain management.
Conclusions:
- Emotional regulation strategies can modulate pain.
- Future research should further elucidate the complex pain-emotion interactions.
- Understanding these links is crucial for comprehensive pain management.
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