Chronic pain patients' quality of life improves with increased life control

This paper describes the relationship between life control and quality of life in 219 nonmalignant chronic pain patients seeking treatment in a multidisciplinary pain program. Specifically, it examines the association between internal locus of control as assessed by a Life Control Scale and measures of psychosocial and behavioral domains, including coping ability and sleep disturbance (Multidimensional Pain Inventory) and emotional well-being (Basic Personality Inventory). The results reported in this study support the contention that chronic pain patients with a strong sense of personal life control (internal locus of control orientation) have a better quality of life than those who report having less control affecting the outcomes in their lives (external locus of control orientation). Patients with an internal orientation report less pain, less pain related interference and better coping skills. They are more active, more social and show a more positive emotional outlook than those chronic pain patients with an external orientation.