Catastrophising and Chronic Pain

Thorn, B. E., Boothby, J. I. & Sullivan, M. J. L. (2002). Targeted Treatment of Catastrophising for the management of Chronic Pain. Cognitive and Behavioral practice, 9, 127-138.

ABSTRACT - Pain catastrophizing refers to a negative mental set brought to bear during the experience of pain. Individuals who catastrophize often feel helpless about controlling their pain, ruminate about painful sensations, and expect bad outcomes. Not surprisingly, such individuals often fail to improve with treatment. This paper provides an assessment tool and outlines a cognitive-behavioral group treatment approachfor chronic pain that is specifically designed to reduce catastrophizing. Principles from stress management, cognitive therapy for depression, assertiveness training, and communal coping models are incorporated within the treatment framework to address specific needs posed by catastrophising. suggestions are provided for organizing treatment sessions and for assigning homework based on treatment principles.

Replies:

Special issue of JCCP on Behavioral Medicine, by Jim Pretzer, 06/26/02 Do Changes in Cognitions Influence Outcome in the Treatment of Chronic Pain?, by Jim Pretzer, 05/03/03 CT is as effective as surgery for chronic back pain!, by Jim Pretzer, 07/12/03 New book on CT for Chronic Pain, by Jim Pretzer, 01/21/04

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