The impact of recurrent headaches on behavior lifestyle and health.

The goal of this study was to examine whether behavioral avoidance was pervasive in a sample of headache sufferers as has been suggested by Philips (Behavior Research and Therapy, 25, 273-279, 1987). One hundred and fifty participants provided retrospective evaluations of behavior changes perceived to have resulted from repeated exposure to headache pain. The outcome of these self-assessments underscored marked changes in several domains of behavior and overall lifestyle. This evidence therefore provided support for Philips' position since the changes appeared persistent, even during pain-free states.