Development of a behavioural assessment instrument for chronic pain

Abstract

This article presents a simple self-report tool for the behavioural assessment of chronic pain. First, a series of considerations are made regarding other behavioural assessment instruments for chronic pain, highlighting their limitations. Next, the instrument in question and the different behavioural parameters it evaluates are described. This self-report assesses the frequency, intensity, and duration of chronic pain, as well as the discriminative stimuli, antecedents, and consequences of the chronic pain response. Finally, the potential uses, advantages, and disadvantages of the self-report are discussed.