Psychological Factors That Affect Pain Sensitivity - Part 2

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“There are significant differences in the perception of pain between people. Pain also varies in the same individual, depending on the circumstances. This is part 2 of which psychological factors impact our pain sensitivity.

5. Expectations - The subjective experience of pain is largely shaped by our expectations. Sometimes this can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy where people experience what they expect will happen, even in the face of contrary evidence. That is why placebos are so effective. In fact, a placebo is an effective pain therapy without any side effects.

6. The effect of love -The emotion of love can also reduce pain perception. Love, like safety, can ease the pain. For example, research shows that pain is reduced when partners hold hands. People who spend a greater portion of their day thinking about a romantic partner experience more pain reduction.

7. Music and pain perception - Music can be a powerful factor in alleviating pain. Music that expresses joy triggers positive memories and can affect mood and the ability to handle pain. In short, music distracts from pain and elevates mood. Because anxiety is frequently related to increased pain perception, relaxing music can reduce pain perception. Your preference matters; if you don't care for classical music, it could have the opposite effect.

Read the whole article at Psychology Today.

#Pain #Perception #Coping

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