Date of Submission

2013

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A DiTomasso, PhD, ABPP, Chair, Department of Psychology

First Advisor

Barbara A Golden, PsyD, ABPP, Chairperson

Second Advisor

Robert A DiTomasso, PhD, ABPP

Third Advisor

Harry J Morris, DO, MPH

Abstract

Chronic pain is a prevalent presenting problem for patients in medical settings, yet how physician knowledge and attitudes about those with chronic pain may influence the treatment of this condition is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of osteopathic medical students about pain management, with particular emphasis on chronic pain, in an effort to address the lack of chronic pain research currently available. A review of current literature, including an overview of chronic pain, is included. This study used original data, collected from first and fourth year D.O. students at a northeastern private graduate medical school. Participants completed an online survey compiled from: the attitudes and beliefs scale, and the knowledge and attitudes survey regarding pain. The findings can be used to meet the needs of trainees in medical schools, more specifically in schools of osteopathic medicine. Potential explanations, limitations of the study, and implications of the research are also explored.

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