Abstract
Coping refers to mental processes that maintain psychological balance and adaptation in strenuous conditions, including pain. In case a problem is interpreted as manageable, psychological and behavioral processes aimed at solving the problem and managing the situation follow (i.e., problem-focused coping).
However, problem perceived as unmanageable leads to psychological and behavioral processes aimed at reducing fear and anxiety (i.e., emotional-focused coping). The standardized Effective Coping with Pain Inventory (ECPI) measures effective coping with pain interpreted as manageable problem.
Ineffective coping with pain perceived as unmanageable problem is assessed by the Coping with Pain Inventory. The ECPI is based on 42 items loosely inspired by similarly aimed tests from abroad.The items, along with pain tests, tests of cognitive processes, tests of affects and tests of behavior and interpersonalprocesses were administred in 120 patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Series of factor analyzes yielded three factors: Defiance, Determination and Acceptance ECPI is the first Czech method for testing effective coping with chronic pain. Using both the CPI - R and ECPI offers a complete view on psychological processes on the crossroad between maladaptation and adaptation.