Effectiveness of components of self-verbalization training for control of cold pressor pain

The increase of positive self-verbalizations (PSV), the decrease of negative self-verbalizations (NSV), their combination (PSV + NSV) and the use of an informational rationale that included a reconceptualization of pain were compared to a test-retest control group for ice water endurance. The Thought-Listing Questionnaire (TLQ) was used to assess participant thoughts. Sixty college women were pretested, given training, and posttested for ice water tolerance. Only the three self-talk treatments (PSV, NSV, PSV + NSV) produced greater pain tolerance. Analysis of TLQ data revealed a relationship between changes in thoughts and self-control of pain. Results suggest that, in contrast to some previous research, PSV and NSV were effective pain control techniques. Differences from other studies included using client-generated thoughts, examining client metacognitions, and promoting high compliance with training (tested by the TLQ). Client use of 'spontaneous' coping strategies was also discussed.