Abstract

SCHUMANN, Pâmela Isadora  and  OLIVEIRA, Clarissa Tochetto de. Problem-solving in people with chronic pain. Psicol. teor. prat. [online]. 2024, vol.26, n.2, ePTPSP16412.  Epub Dec 02, 2024. ISSN 1516-3687.  https://doi.org/10.5935/1980-6906/eptpsp16412.en.

The aim of this study was to identify problem solving (PS) strategies used by people with chronic pain. The study sample consisted of 10 people with chronic pain. The data were gathered using individual semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis as proposed by Bardin. The following categories of analysis were defined based on the portions of text: (1) Problems in the daily life of individuals with chronic pain; (2) Problem definition; and (3) PS strategies. The problems faced by the participants are related to physical limitations, interpersonal relations, leisure activities, and work. In contrast, meaningful relationships can be sources of comfort and support. The well-defined problems in the daily life of participants are related to physical limitations, work, and psychological difficulties. The PS strategies used by the participants are based on acceptance and focusing on the problem. Our findings showing the PS strategies most used by the participants can serve as guidance for professional practice, contributing to more effective management of chronic pain.

Keywords : problem solving; cognitive behavioral therapy; health strategies; acceptance and commitment therapy; chronic pain.

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