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The International Association for the Study of Pain

Romancing with Pain: A Survey Study of Young People with Chronic Pain -TU45

Poster Abstract
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Abstract Description

Using a social media campaign, a convenience sample of 67 young people (age 18-25 years) with chronic pain who were actively engaged in a romantic relationship were recruited to complete an online survey using standardized measures. Their romantic relationship experiences (satisfaction, anxiety or avoidance towards romantic relationships, and self-efficacy in romantic relationships) are described. Regression analysis suggest that pain interference, but not loneliness and self-esteem, was significant in explaining variance in romantic relationship anxiety. Pain related characteristics did not have an association with satisfaction in one’s present romantic relationship. Assessing one’s experience in romantic relations may reveal a young person’s anxiety about close relationships in relation to their pain. However, it is helpful for young people to understand that pain does not preclude satisfying romantic relationships. 

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Dr. Paula Forgeron - University of Ottawa (Ontario, Canada) , Dr. Pam Qualter - University of Manchester (United Kingdom) , Dr. Abbie Joran - University of Bath (United Kingdom) , Dr. Holly Saron - Edgehill University (United Kingdom) , Dr. Bernie Carter - Edgehill University (United Kingdom)

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