My name is Norma, and I am a Clinical Psychologist in training at the University of Southampton, UK. I am currently recruiting participants for my doctoral thesis that is aiming to investigate the impact that the experience of trauma might have on how we can cope with pain.

From previous research, we know that those who have been through trauma (including emotional or physical abuse, but also single-event trauma, such as accidents), often struggle more with managing pain. People have different strategies to manage pain. One specific coping strategy is referred to as pain catastrophising. Pain catastrophising is often defined by feeling overwhelmed by pain, focusing on it more, and feeling helpless. This can make (chronic) pain harder to cope with and may worsen the overall experience. By understanding the link between trauma and pain coping strategies better, we are hoping to contribute to improve how chronic pain is understood and treated.

I ask participants to complete an online survey comprising five questionnaires (approx. 20-30 minutes). Within the scope of this research, I will also examine whether factors such as paranoia, dissociation, and intolerance of uncertainty moderate this relationship. Understanding these complex interactions may provide valuable insights for developing more holistic and effective therapeutic interventions, particularly in the context of trauma and pain.

Please access the survey via the QR code of the link here : https://southampton.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6XyftZazm0Be5Lg