“…Catastrophizing is a consistently-important predictor of pain-related outcomes, 13,46 showing associations with day-to-day pain symptoms and with the development of persistent pain, even in initially healthy samples. 15,41 Though the specific nature of catastrophizing is under debate, 49,50 one hypothesis about catastrophizing is that it may function as a diathesis, varying widely between individuals but not manifesting its detrimental effects until a pain condition is present. Data from community samples indicate a fairly normal distribution of catastrophizing scores, and a statistically significant, though slight, elevation in catastrophizing in those experiencing moderate pain compared with pain-free adults.…”