| Pain catastrophizing has been identified as an important factor in persistent pain (e.g., Sullivan, Thorn, et al., 2001). The communal coping model (CCM) of pain catastrophizing (Sullivan, Tripp, & Santor, 2000) suggests that rather than simply a maladaptive cognitive coping strategy aimed at pain reduction, catastrophizing may serve to increase expressions of distress and thus ensure social support. This study examined pain catastrophizing in a sample 142 university undergraduates who experience persistent pain. Participants completed questionnaires measuring pain variables, catastrophizing, depression, discussion of pain, and perceived responding by others. Catastrophizing was found to be positively related to pain severity. Positive correlations were also observed between catastrophizing and participants' perceptions of the frequency of pain discussions with their dating partners and parents/guardians. Finally, catastrophizing was found to be a significant predictor of perceived solicitous responding within dating partner relationships. This study extends our knowledge of pain catastrophizing and supports the need for future research examining the communicative and social context of catastrophizing. |
