When it comes to children experiencing pain, whether it’s a minor injury or a more serious condition, the way they are treated can have a lasting impact on how they perceive and manage pain later in life. Researchers from the University of South Australia have highlighted the importance of validating and acknowledging a child’s pain to build trust and connection, ultimately shaping their ability to regulate emotions and seek help when needed.
According to the study, drawing from research in developmental psychology, child mental health, and pain sciences, it’s crucial for parents and doctors to be mindful of how they communicate and interact with children in pain. By validating a child’s pain and demonstrating understanding and acceptance, it helps the child feel heard and believed, strengthening the bond between the child and their caregiver or healthcare provider.
Dr. Sarah Wallwork, a researcher at UniSA, emphasizes the role of social relationships in shaping health experiences from childhood to adulthood. She explains that when a child’s pain is acknowledged and validated in a compassionate manner, it not only fosters trust and connection but also equips the child with essential skills to manage emotions and seek help effectively.
“When a doctor or parent responds to a child’s pain cues with attention and empathy, they validate the child’s experiences and reinforce positive pain management behaviors. On the other hand, dismissing or questioning the child’s pain can have detrimental effects on the relationship and the child’s future approach to seeking treatment,” Dr. Wallwork says.
Chronic pain is a prevalent issue among children, with as many as one in four experiencing persistent pain. In Australia, the economic burden of chronic pain exceeds $139 billion, primarily due to reduced quality of life and productivity losses. Dr. Wallwork emphasizes the need for early intervention in pain management to prevent long-term consequences and address disparities in pain treatment for marginalized groups.
“Children who experience chronic pain need to be supported and validated in their pain experiences to prevent negative outcomes like poor mental health and decreased quality of life. By addressing pain early on and providing adequate support, we can mitigate the impact of chronic pain on children’s well-being,” Dr. Wallwork explains.
As the research lays the foundation for future studies on child and youth pain treatment, it highlights the critical role of validating children’s pain experiences in shaping their pain perception and seeking behavior. By prioritizing comprehensive pain management strategies and addressing the emotional aspects of pain, healthcare providers can support children in effectively coping with pain and seeking help when needed.
