Acceptance-based interoceptive exposure for young children with functional abdominal pain

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Child Psychology
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• Functional abdominal pain (FAP) is a common childhood issue causing daily life impairment and increasing risks for chronic pain and mental health conditions.
• Existing cognitive behavioral treatments for FAP primarily serve older children (9+ years).
• There is a need for interventions targeting younger children (5-9 years) with FAP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and test an interoceptive exposure treatment for younger children (5-9 years) with FAP.
• To help children interpret bodily signals, reduce fear of sensations, and improve emotion awareness and self-regulation.

Main Methods:

• A 10-week interoceptive exposure treatment was developed for children aged 5-9 with FAP.
• The treatment utilized cartoon characters and "FBI agent" (Feeling and Body Investigator) training to explore bodily sensations.
• Assessments included diagnostic interviews, 14-day pain monitoring, and questionnaires.

Main Results:

• The treatment demonstrated clinically meaningful and statistically significant reductions in pain experience, distress, and interference.
• Effect sizes for pain and pain distress indicated moderate to large treatment effects.
• Negative affect also showed significant improvement.

Conclusions:

• Interoceptive exposure is an effective intervention for young children with FAP.
• This treatment approach helps children adopt a curious stance toward somatic symptoms, reducing pain and somatic fear.
• The findings suggest potential for broader application in managing somatic complaints in children.