How children are treated when they express pain—whether from a skinned knee or fear of injections—can have a lasting effect on how they cope with discomfort throughout their lives. New research from the University of South Australia underscores the importance of acknowledging and validating a child’s pain, no matter how minor it might seem.
Researchers suggest that a parent’s or doctor’s response to a child in pain can shape their future approach to managing it. Dr. Sarah Wallwork from UniSA explains that social relationships play a central role in influencing a child’s perception of health and pain throughout life.
“When a parent or doctor acknowledges a child’s pain in a way that fits their level of vulnerability, it helps the child feel accepted and builds trust,” Dr. Wallwork says. “This connection not only reinforces their sense of being understood but also helps them develop emotional regulation skills.”
She notes that if a doctor is attentive to a child’s emotions and behaviours when they seek help, it affirms that their pain is real and encourages positive health behaviours, such as attending future medical appointments. However, dismissing or downplaying a child’s pain can erode trust in the clinician and may even discourage them from seeking help later on.
“Pain and emotion are closely linked,” Dr. Wallwork explains. “Children who have their pain validated are less likely to carry negative memories of it and will be more inclined to seek help when needed in the future.”
Chronic pain in children is a widespread issue, with one in four Australian children suffering from it. The economic impact is staggering, costing the country over $139 billion annually, primarily due to reduced quality of life and loss of productivity. Yet, addressing the problem early—by fostering better pain management behaviours in children—could significantly reduce these costs.
Dr. Wallwork highlights the importance of recognising pain in all children, especially those from minoritised groups, who are often undertreated. “People with chronic pain frequently report feeling disbelieved or dismissed,” she says, warning that this can have detrimental effects on mental health and overall well-being.
This research calls attention to the need for early intervention in managing children’s pain, framing it as a crucial part of setting them up for success in all aspects of life. As Dr. Wallwork concludes, “Managing pain better from a young age could help alleviate the chronic pain burden and prevent further mental health struggles in the future.”
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