Chronic low back pain and anger: influencing effect of rumination and gender.
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Ann Quinlan-Colwell (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Anita Tesh
Abstract: Persons living with chronic low back pain (PLWCLBP) represent a major health
concern. Up to 84% of people at some point experience chronic back low pain (CLBP)
with sizeable fiscal and emotional cost. If a connection between anger and CLBP can be
understood, PLWCLBP can learn to better manage CLBP by managing their anger. This
descriptive study that used survey methodology, was designed to assess the relationship
between anger and CLBP; if that differs by gender; and if anger rumination is an
influence. Five self report questionnaires were used to elicit data about pain perception,
pain behavior, anger, and anger rumination in addition to demographic information.
Inclusion criteria for the convenience sample were adult men and women; experiencing
CLBP for three months or more; able to read and understand English; and able to
understand the research process. The sample was recruited from offices of chiropractors,
acupuncturists, orthopedist, pain clinics and through social nomination. Data were
analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment correlations, Student ttests
and multiple regressions. Vigorous response to recruitment required the sample size
to be increased. Except with pain behavior, no statistically significant difference by
gender was seen in distribution of any variable. Pain perception was moderately
correlated with pain behaviors and intensity. State-Anger and Anger Rumination were
significantly correlated with CLBP of both genders. State-Anger was significantly related
to pain perception, intensity, and behavior, and in fact was predictive of them. With the
exception of pain behavior, which may be culturally determined, the findings did not
support a gender difference in how PLWCLBP experience pain and anger. These findings
underscore the importance of individualizing pain assessment and appreciating that the
experiences of PLWCLBP are unique and complex. There are several implications for
nursing and health care professionals. PLWCLBP may report pain perception that does
not seem to be consistent with present pain intensity. Since State-Anger was correlated
with CLBP, interventions addressing anger may be useful in working with PLWCLBP.
Gender specific anger group interventions may not be necessary. Anger rumination was
related to both State-Anger and pain behavior and can be included in holistic treatment
plans for PLWCLBP. Nurses need to know techniques to effectively work with patients
who are angry to manage their own responses and to teach techniques to patients and
families.
Chronic low back pain and anger: influencing effect of rumination and gender.
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Created on 5/1/2010
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2010
- Keywords
- Anger, Chronic pain, low back pain, Gender, Nursing, Pain, Rumination
- Subjects
- Chronic pain $x Psychological aspects.
- Chronic pain $x Patients $x Attitudes.
- Anger.
- Anger $x Sex differences.