A prospective clinical analysis of pain behavior and self-injurious behavior

Pain. 2005 Oct;117(3):473-477. doi: 10.1016/j.pain.2005.07.010.

Abstract

It is a widely assumed but rarely tested proposition that the experience and expression of pain is altered among individuals with self-injurious behavior and disabilities. As a preliminary test of this proposition, the purpose of this case study was to apply a validated pain measure to examine ratings of pain behavior in relation to ratings of self-injurious behavior (SIB). A prospective correlational design was used with maternal ratings completed three times/day for 9 days using two item independent rating scales specific to pain and SIB. The participant was a 6-year-old boy with severe SIB secondary to midbrain tumor (pilocytic astrocytoma) resection and post-operative sequelae. Measures were taken in the child's home. Pain behavior was measured using the Non-Communicating Children's Pain Checklist Revised (NCCPC-R). Self-injury was measured using the Self-Injury Trauma Scale (SITS). Time intervals associated with elevated ratings of SIB were associated with elevated pain ratings. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) for pain ratings between time intervals with and without self-injury. It is suggested that additional empirical work is needed to clarify the relation between pain and self-injury to improve assessment and treatment outcomes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pain / physiopathology*
  • Pain / psychology*
  • Pain Measurement / methods
  • Prospective Studies
  • Self-Injurious Behavior / etiology*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Time Factors