Pain: Why We’d Rather Get It Over With
Psychology of Pain Avoidance
Pain is an unpleasant sensation that we naturally try to avoid. However, research has shown that when it comes to physical pain, people often prefer to get it over with quickly, rather than delaying it. This is in contrast to other types of unpleasant experiences, such as punishments or unpleasant tasks, which we typically prefer to postpone.
The Anticipation of Pain
Psychologists believe that the anticipation of pain carries a psychological cost. This means that the dread and anxiety we experience while waiting for a painful event can be just as unpleasant as the pain itself. As a result, people may choose to endure the pain all at once in order to avoid the prolonged anticipation.
Masochism and Pain Tolerance
While most people prefer to avoid pain, there are some individuals who exhibit masochistic tendencies. Masochism is a psychological condition in which individuals derive pleasure from pain. In the study mentioned earlier, masochistic volunteers showed a strong preference for receiving electric shocks all at once, even though it meant experiencing more total pain.
Pain and Dental Appointments
The study also investigated people’s preferences regarding dental appointments. Participants were given the option of scheduling an appointment for the same day or up to eight months in the future. While some participants didn’t care when the appointment took place, the majority preferred to get it over with as soon as possible. This suggests that the anticipation of pain, even in a mild form, can influence our decision-making.
Pain Beyond Physical Sensations
The psychological cost of pain anticipation is not limited to physical pain. Research has shown that the anticipation of taking a math test can activate pain networks in the brain for some people. This suggests that the brain processes psychological pain in a similar way to physical pain.
Implications for Pain Management
Understanding the psychological factors that influence pain perception can have implications for pain management. For example, healthcare professionals may consider using distraction techniques or relaxation exercises to help patients cope with the anticipation of pain. Additionally, providing patients with accurate information about pain and its management can help reduce anxiety and improve their overall experience.
Additional Considerations
- The study’s findings suggest that people’s preferences regarding pain may vary depending on the severity and type of pain.
- Cultural and individual factors can also influence pain tolerance and preferences.
- It’s important to note that the study’s findings are based on self-reported data, which may not always be accurate or reliable.
