The Interplay of Neuroticism and Self-Efficacy in Pain Catastrophizing: A Quantitative Analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the predictive roles of neuroticism and self-efficacy on pain catastrophizing in an adult population. A cross-sectional design was utilized, involving 290 participants who completed the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the NEO Five-Factor Inventory for Neuroticism, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression in SPSS-27. Results indicated that neuroticism positively predicted pain catastrophizing, while self-efficacy showed a negative predictive relationship. The model accounted for approximately 26% of the variance in pain catastrophizing scores. The findings highlight the significant influence of neuroticism and self-efficacy on pain catastrophizing, suggesting that interventions aimed at reducing neuroticism and enhancing self-efficacy may be effective in mitigating pain catastrophizing in individuals.