ABSTRACT
Chronic pain is a problem that affects patient whole family. A chronic pain problem can change their role in and contribution to the family. An act of caring, such as getting an important medication for a spouse, parent, or friend who is hurting, may be all that patient can offer to the chronic pain patient. As the pain and dysfunction of the chronic pain family member get worse, his or her usual attitudes and personality may change and be replaced by negativism, pessimism, anger, despair, and depression. A major problem that occurs with the development of chronic pain is a tendency toward attitude changes that are sometimes not adaptive. Patient pain problem may only respond partially to medical therapy. A chronic pain problem can strengthen a relationship and promote more togetherness and more sensitivity to the needs of each other. Not many therapists have made the commitment to meet the needs of chronic pain patients as a full-time practice.
