Impact of Racial Discrimination on Pain Intensity and Wellbeing in Marginalized Groups

Overview

This study reveals that racial discrimination significantly contributes to increased pain severity among racially marginalized groups, particularly Hispanic/Latine individuals. Avoidant coping styles and depression symptoms further exacerbate pain outcomes, highlighting the complex interplay between psychosocial stressors and pain.

Background

Chronic pain affects a substantial portion of the global and U.S. populations and is a leading cause of disability. Pain perception is influenced by biopsychosocial factors, including chronic stress and mental health conditions. Experiences of racial discrimination act as chronic stressors that may sensitize the nervous system, increasing vulnerability to pain. Racial and ethnic disparities in pain outcomes are well-documented, with marginalized groups often experiencing greater pain severity and poorer healthcare quality.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Racialized participants reported significantly greater lifetime ethnic discrimination and racial microaggressions than non-Hispanic White participants.
• Hispanic/Latine individuals reported the highest pain severity among all racial/ethnic groups studied.
• Lifetime discrimination, depression symptoms, avoidant coping style, and age were significant predictors of increased pain severity.
• Lifetime discrimination partially mediated the relationship between race/ethnicity and pain severity in marginalized groups.
• Avoidant coping combined with greater discrimination experiences was associated with amplified pain severity.
• Structural racism contributes to chronic psychological distress, influencing pain perception and healthcare disparities.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider the impact of racial discrimination and associated psychosocial stressors when assessing and managing pain in racially marginalized patients. Interventions targeting avoidant coping strategies may help reduce pain severity. Additionally, addressing systemic racism through policy changes is essential to improve health equity and reduce pain burden in these populations.

Conclusion

Racial discrimination is a significant contributor to increased pain severity and poorer wellbeing among marginalized groups, with avoidant coping exacerbating these effects. Comprehensive approaches addressing both individual coping and systemic racism are critical to improving pain outcomes and health equity.

References

1. Original Research Article, Psychology, Psychiatry & Brain Neuroscience Section -- The Impact of Racial Discrimination on Pain Intensity and Wellbeing Among Marginalized Groups