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Investigating Pain-Related Avoidance Behavior using a Robotic Arm-Reaching Paradigm
Published on: October 3, 2020
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Experiential Avoidance in Advanced Cancer: a Mixed-Methods Systematic Review.
Sarah Davis1, Marc Serfaty2, Joe Low3
1Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Dept, University College London, Maple House, Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK. s.davis@ucl.ac.uk.
International Journal of Behavioral Medicine
|October 25, 2022
Summary
Experiential avoidance (EA) in advanced cancer patients can temporarily reduce distress but may lead to long-term functional impairment. Understanding EA
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Advanced cancer patients experience significant psychological distress.
- Experiential avoidance (EA) may be a coping mechanism for managing difficult thoughts and emotions.
- Understanding the nuances of EA in this population is crucial.
Approach:
- A mixed-methods review was conducted, searching major databases from 1980-2019.
- Included studies focused on adults with advanced cancer not amenable to cure.
- Excluded studies lacking measures of EA or psychological distress.
Key Points:
- Nineteen studies were synthesized, revealing 'avoidant coping' as a common term for EA.
- EA manifests as cognitive, behavioral, and emotional avoidance.
- The function of EA appears to be short-term protection from distress by avoiding difficult emotions and maintaining hope.
Conclusions:
- While EA may offer short-term relief, it can impair long-term function and life engagement.
- Clinical awareness of EA's complexity and function is needed.
- Future research should precisely define EA and explore interventions like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
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