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Interactive effects of internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors on recurrent pain in children
Inka Vaalamo1, Lea Pulkkinen, Taru Kinnunen
1University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
Objective:
To examine, in children, relationships between self-reported recurrent pain and emotion regulation indicated by rated internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors and adjustment.
Method:
Finnish 11-12-year-old schoolchildren (N = 414) completed a questionnaire measuring recurrent pain. Emotion regulation was assessed by a Multidimensional Peer Nomination Inventory, Teacher Rating Form. Relationships between recurrent pain and emotion regulation were examined in logistic regression analyses, after controlling for past injuries and chronic illnesses.
Results:
Independent of injuries and chronic illnesses, externalizing and internalizing problem behaviors related to recurrent pain, and more so together than separately. Gender differences were found; constructive behavior associated with recurrent pain only in girls.
Conclusions:
Low self-control of emotions, indicated by internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors, was related to pain in both boys and girls; high self-control of emotions, indicated by constructive behavior, associated with pain only in girls.