Daily dynamics of positive and negative affect in the context of chronic migraine

Abstract

Background: In patients with chronic migraine, frequent pain and the disturbance of personal goals have been found to be stressors that may trigger negative affect. The Dynamic Model of Affect (DMA) suggests that in stressful situations, positive affect (PA) may act as a protective buffer against the impact of stress on negative affect (NA). The aim of this study was to examine the moderating role of PA in the relationship between pain, daily goal disturbance, and NA in the context of chronic migraine. Methods: The Experience Sampling Method was used to assess positive and negative affect, pain and goal disturbance at 10 random moments per day for 7 consecutive days. Data were analysed using multilevel modelling. Expected results: it is expected that higher momentary pain and goal disturbance will be concurrently and prospectively associated with higher NA. Furthermore, it is expected that these associations are weaker in the presence of higher PA. Current stage of work: Currently 20 participants have been included in the study. At the time of the conference, it is expected that at least 50 participants will be included and that preliminary analyses will be completed. Discussion: This study is the first to examine the DMA in the context of CM. If positive affect indeed protects against the impact of migraine-related stressors on negative affect, this suggest that CM patients may benefit from interventions targeting PA.