Abstract:

Coping Strategies: Stable and Situational Determinants. Stephon Senegal; Dr. Jules P. Harrell, Department of Psychology, Howard University, Washington, DC.

The goal of this research is to arrive at a thorough understanding of the concept of pain. Specifically, we are seeking to uncover the positive aspects of pain. Traditionally, pain has had negative connotations, yet it is hoped that by understanding its processes, pain’s historically venomous skin may be shed. The processes involved in the perception of pain are key components in finally understanding how pain can be lessened for normal persons. Normal persons are those who are not chronic pain patients. Even though chronic pain is not the focus of this paper, it is assumed that by understanding phasic pain within a conceptual model, the prerequisite of acute and chronic pain, the latter types of pain may be better understood. Frequently, understanding the lesser of two evils will help shed light on the greater. In light of this, it is hypothesized that the experience of phasic (or acute pain) and other stressors during childhood, coupled with adaptive coping strategies, could act as a primary catalyst for the prevention of pain (well-adjusted adult). Research tends to indirectly support this notion but is all too often helplessly directed towards treating pain and not preventing pain and its debilitating effects on the individual. The prevention of pain and its effects involves a few things: first, an increase in pain tolerance and endurance; second, the implementation of adaptive coping strategies; and third, the use of pain as a tool to enhance the first two. Adaptive coping and pain tolerance can only be properly developed through the introduction of painful and stressful stimuli. High tolerance and good coping skills are necessary for the mental health of an individual and consequently are the reasons that pain can now be seen as an ally in their development.