Research Exploring the impact of childhood trauma and PTSD on pain coping strategies

[Norma Rosenek]

Dear MyPTSD community,
My name is Norma and I am a Clinical Psychologist in training at the University of Southampton, UK. I am currently recruiting participants for my doctoral thesis that is aiming to investigate the impact that experiencing childhood adversity and adult-life PTSD symptoms have on how we may cope with pain.


Rationale
Trauma, including childhood trauma and PTSD symptoms, is associated with increased risks of mental health issues such as anxiety, as well as physical health challenges like chronic pain. These experiences often hinder the development of effective coping strategies. Although the impact of PTSD and childhood trauma on pain coping is well-documented, their specific influence on pain catastrophising — a cognitive-emotional process involving an exaggerated focus on pain and feelings of helplessness — remains unexplored to date.

This study aims to investigate how different types of trauma may predict pain catastrophising. To explore these relationships, we ask participants to complete an online survey comprising five questionnaires (approx. 20-30 minutes). We will also examine whether factors such as paranoia, dissociation, and intolerance of uncertainty moderate the effects of childhood trauma on pain catastrophising. Understanding these complex interactions may provide valuable insights for developing more holistic and effective therapeutic interventions, particularly for individuals with a history of childhood adversity and trauma.


Accessing the study
You can access the study through this link:

Online survey: Pain and Trauma Thesis

Or scan the QR code on the study poster.



If you have any further questions or wish to get in touch with me before, you can email me on [email protected]



Many thanks,

Norma Rosenek, PhD
Trainee Clinical Psychologist
University of Southampton

 

[Charbella]

These experiences often hinder the development of effective coping strategies.

Really? We survived, often through terrible physical, emotional and psychological pain.

I think the enigma you should be studying is why we have high pain instead of why we can’t cope with it.

 

[Abstract]

I have the opposite problem which has ultimately resulted in pain conditions. My initial inability to feel or achnowdge pain and my crazy high pain threshold meant I didn't demand treatment for health conditions early enough which then meant more real damage and long term pain. I know I'm not alone. I have zero pain catastrophising. But I do appreciate that there is research attempting to help pain.

But do look at the correlation between over-high pain tolerance and dissociation, aka trauma. Thank you

 

[Friday]

One of the more interesting studies I’ve read.

I’d love to see the final results, if you didn’t mind adding this thread/site to your list.

Thanks!

 

[anthony]

Norma has provided the published results of this study: https://www.researchgate.net/public...onic_and_Acute_Pain_A_Strength-Based_Approach

Summary

This study looked at how experiences of childhood trauma and post-traumatic stress can affect the way people live with and cope with pain. The research found that people who had experienced emotional or physical abuse in childhood, or who were living with strong PTSD symptoms such as intrusive memories or feeling constantly on edge, often described their pain as more intense or distressing. This connection was especially strong for those living with chronic pain. The study also found that when people had a history of trauma or PTSD, they sometimes found it harder to use coping strategies that can be helpful, like distraction, positive self-talk, or prayer, which in turn made the pain feel more overwhelming.

These findings remind us that pain isn’t only a physical experience but that it’s deeply connected to our emotional history and the ways we’ve learned to cope with stress and adversity. For those living with chronic pain, this research reinforces that your experiences are valid and complex, and that struggles with pain are not simply “in your head.” Trauma can shape how our bodies and minds respond to pain, but the study also highlights the potential for healing through approaches that focus on safety, self-compassion, and rebuilding coping resources.

These findings support the necessity of taking a trauma-informed view when it comes to pain care; one that recognises the whole person, not just their symptoms. It suggests that strengthening adaptive coping strategies and supporting emotional wellbeing can play a meaningful role in easing the burden of chronic pain.”

 

[didacticgenoa]

It implies that improving emotional health and developing adaptive coping mechanisms might significantly lessen the impact of chronic pain.

 

[Ecdysis]

Thank you for the update and results