Suffering

In this presentation, the major findings from a research program exploring the behavioral-experiential nature of suffering are summarize. Suffering is perceived as comprising of two major behavioral states: Enduring (in which emotions are suppressed, and is manifest as an emotionless state and emotional suffering ( an overt state of distress in which emotions are released).

Individuals who are suffering move back and forth between these two states according to their own needs (including bearing pain), their recognition or acknowledgement or acceptance of events, the context, and the needs and responses of others. Implications for the provision of care for those who are suffering states will be discussed.