Role of BCEs in Trauma and Chronic Pain

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  The role of Benevolent Childhood Experiences in the relationship between Trauma and Chronic pain

• IRAS ID

  362652

• Sponsor organisation

  Queen's University Belfast

• Duration of Study in the UK

  2 years, 4 months, 31 days

• Research summary

  This research is exploring how positive experiences in childhood, known as Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs), might protect people from the harmful effects of trauma on chronic pain. Chronic pain is pain that lasts for more than three months and affects up to half of adults in the UK. It can have a big impact on daily life, causing emotional distress, problems with work and relationships, and reduced quality of life. Many people with chronic pain also experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex PTSD (CPTSD), which develop after traumatic events. These conditions often make each other worse.
  This research is important because, while much attention has been given to the harmful effects of trauma on chronic pain, much less is known about the benefits of positive early experiences such as having a caring adult, enjoying school, or having supportive friends. These may help build resilience, reducing the likelihood of trauma leading to long-term health problems like PTSD or chronic pain.
  The study aims to answer two key questions: (1) What is the relationship between trauma symptoms and chronic pain? and (2) Do positive childhood experiences reduce the impact of trauma on chronic pain?
  The project will recruit adults (18+) in Northern Ireland through Regional Trauma Network services and Chronic Pain Services. Participants will be asked to complete an online survey taking about 20–30 minutes. The survey includes questions about childhood experiences, trauma symptoms, pain levels, mood, and anxiety.
  The research is being carried out by a Trainee Clinical Psychologist at Queen’s University Belfast as part of a doctoral thesis.
  By improving our understanding of how positive childhood experiences protect health, the findings could help shape trauma-informed care and resilience-focused supports for individuals, families, and communities.
  

• REC name

  London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  26/PR/0110

• Date of REC Opinion

  16 Mar 2026

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion