Depression has been observed to accompany chronic pain. Yet, controversy remains regarding the extent and nature of the relationship between these 2 disorders. The authors analyze the literature regarding depression rates in chronic pain and other chronic medical populations and argue that depression appears to be highest among chronic pain patients. Drawing from cognitive-behavioral models of depression, the authors explore the unique psychological experiences of living with chronic pain that may account for the high prevalence of depression. Then a diathesis-stress framework is proposed to conceptualize the development of depression in chronic pain. Clinical and heuristic implications are discussed.

This experiment compared the effectiveness of gain-versus loss-framed messages to persuade women to obtain mammography screening. One hundred and thirty-three women 40 years and older and not adhering to current guidelines for obtaining mammography screening were assigned randomly to view either gain-framed (emphasizing the benefits of obtaining mammography) or loss-framed (emphasizing the risks of not obtaining mammography) persuasive videos that were factually equivalent. Attitudes and beliefs were measured before and immediately following the intervention. Mammography utilization was assessed 6 and 12 months later. Consistent with predictions based on prospect theory, women who viewed the loss-framed message were more likely to have obtained a mammogram within 12 months of the intervention. These findings suggest that loss-framed messages may have an advantage in the promotion of detection behaviors such as mammography.

A multifaceted intervention improved pain-management process and outcome measures in nursing homes.