The Relationship between Attachment, Emotional Problems and Chronic Pain in Adolescents

Chronic pain in childhood is very common (Perquin, 2002). One out of four
children from zero to eighteen years suffers from chronic pain. The most
frequent complaints are: pain in arms or legs, head of stomach. An important
question that rises is which factors play a role in the development of pain. In
earlier studies a relationship has been found between attachment and chronic
pain (Meridith, Strong, & Feeney, 2006; Ciechanowski et al., 2002). This study
has proved that there is a relationship between attachment and the feeling of
control over pain in adults. The outcome of the study supports the value of the
concept attachment in the context of chronic pain. However, no research has
been done to study the influence of attachment problems on the development of
pain in adolescents.

The objective of this study is to find out whether there is a relationship
between attachment (problems), emotional problems and chronic pain in
adolescents. It is aimed to improve the knowledge on the causes and maintaining
factors of chronic pain. Based on the results of this study we hope to be able
to detect chronic pain in an earlier stage and to improve treatment.

The main question is: Are there differences considering attachment, social
abilities, anxiety and depression between adolescents with chronic pain,
adolescents with JIA and healthy adolescents?

It is a cross-sectional study. There will be 1 measurement. All participants
will fill in 6 questionnairs on the domain of:
- Attachment
- Anxiety and depression
- Social abilities
- Self-efficacy
- Pain

There are no risks related to participation in this study. Participation
consists of filling in 6 questionnaires on one specific moment, which will take
maximum 1 hour of time. In our opinion no penetrating questions are asked.
Filling in the questionnaires will therefore not be an emotional burden.