Motivational Perspectives on Chronic Pain is one of the first volumes to present a cohesive account of the adaptation to chronic pain from a motivational perspective. Contributing authors from diverse areas of pain research offer comprehensive summaries of the concepts, findings, and applied methodologies that converge on the role of goals and goal-related cognitive processes, self-regulatory support mechanisms, contextual forces, and emotionality as they influence (and are influenced by) the experience of chronic pain. This volume provides readers with an up-to-date compendium of cutting-edge research and interventions that collectively illustrate the utility of viewing chronic pain neither as a "disease" nor an imposed lifestyle, but as the emergent and potentially flexible product of a complex transactional system that is bounded by both sociocultural factors and by biogenetic and neural moderating forces. Within its pages, chapters capture the vibrancy of current theory, research, and practice while pointing toward unexplored new directions. Among the important topics addressed by this distinguished group of authors include: the nature and relevance of control systems, the role of neural mechanisms on pain processing, the influence positive and negative emotion regulation play on pain management, the impact of learning and conditioning, and the often neglected influence of interpersonal processes on adjustment to chronic pain.

People who suffer from chronic pain are typically found to be more anxious and fearful of pain than those who do not. Recent evidence has shown that the pain itself serves as a mechanism through which chronic pain is maintained over time. Even once the muscle or tissue damage is healed, a fear of further pain can lead to avoidance behavior, which over time, leads to deconditioning (e.g. decreased mobility, weight gain). This in turn leads to further experiences, negative expectancies, and strengthened avoidance. It is the reciprocal relationship between fear and avoidance that is thought to be responsible for maintaining pain behavior and disability.
With fear of pain known to cause significant suffering and functional disability, there is a need for a greater understanding of this condition. This is the first book to explore this topic. It starts by introducing the current theoretical positions regarding pain-related fear and anxiety along with relevant empirical findings. It then provides comprehensive coverage of assessment issues and treatment strategies. Finally, the book suggests further areas for investigation.
Pain-related fear and anxiety are now receiving considerable attention, and efficient and effective treatments are fast becoming available. This book will help guide and extend our understanding of a condition that has been shown to be associated with substantial suffering and disability.