Perceived control over pain: Individual differences and situational determinants

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Abstract
Determinants of perceived control over pain were varied to assess their impact on pain tolerance to electric shock in an experimental setting where variably tolerant models were used to influence pain reports and behavior. On the basis of locus of control scores, students were assigned to internal and external groups. Instructions were presented emphasizing personal or environmental determinants of pain. Fifty subjects [Ss] were assigned randomly to 5 groups based on these instructions and whether they were paired with a model who was tolerant, intolerant or inactive. Internals manifested greater pain tolerance, but the instructions on situational as contrasted with personal sources of control over pain did not influence pain behavior. The models promoted or inhibited exposure to the shocks consistent with the model''s role. Subsequent disclosure of the models'' roles, followed by further pain tolerance assessment, did not lead to changes in pain behavior, indicating that the training effect was persistent. Relative contributions of individual differences and situational factors to pain behavior were examined.