The effect of optimism on the facial expression of pain: Implications for pain communication

BACKGROUND There is a broad range of evidence on optimism dampening the pain experience, as assessed by subjective self-report. Facial expression conveys supplementary information about an integral part communication and assists psychosocial coping. Nevertheless, effect induced facial activity during has to our knowledge not been examined. METHODS In experiment, 40 healthy participants underwent two blocks thermal stimulation containing phasic non-painful painful stimuli. Between blocks, Best Possible Self imagery writing task was performed induce situational optimism, while control group wrote their typical day. self-report ratings intensity unpleasantness were recorded. analysed using Action Coding System. RESULTS The manipulation successful in increasing state optimism. It did affect ratings, but resulted stronger pain, caused especially increases Units 4 (furrowed brows) 6_7 (narrowed eyes). CONCLUSIONS All Units, which affected induction, are known be prevalent stimulation. increase might reflect reduced inhibition temporarily optimistic participants. Optimism lead expecting positive helpful reactions from others and, that, great readiness elicit these non-verbal social behaviour. SIGNIFICANCE This study first indicate that signal for help empathy without concomitant changes experience.