An instrument to assess biopsychosocial pain concepts in adults. Development and evaluation by experts

Background: The biopsychosocial model is fundamental for the understanding and treatment of chronic pain; however, little research has focused on whether those affected show a biopsychosocial understanding. The multidimensional questionnaire Biopsychosocial Pain Concept Matrix (BiPS matrix) is presented. The conception of the BiPS matrix is based on the biological, psychological and social areas as well as on the common sense model of self-regulation with five dimensions: (1) type of disorder, (2) assumptions on the causes, (3) consequences, (4) duration of the disease and (5) possibilities for control and treatment. Objective: The present study aims to examine the content relevance and comprehension of the areas, dimensions and items, including the use of the BiPS matrix with children by interdisciplinary expert ratings. The questionnaire can be perspectively used by treating professionals for diagnostic purposes. Method: In an online study 17 experts were questioned. In addition to descriptive statistics, comments were evaluated using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Results: All experts rated the assessment of pain concepts with the BiPS matrix as well as the areas and dimensions as very relevant. With respect to the items, suggestions were made mainly regarding the wording of the items and adjustments for children. Discussion: From an expert point of view the BiPS matrix represents a relevant instrument. Further research on the psychometric properties of the BiPS matrix in adults and children is indicated. In addition, the BiPS matrix can also be used to investigate pain concepts of medical and psychotherapeutic professional groups to demonstrate the biopsychosocial understanding of pain and the associated treatment options.