Loved Ones Photo as Medicine

A study published in the Journal of Psychological Science demonstrates that looking at a loved one's photo may actually reduce pain or at least the reported intensity of pain.

A study involving 25 women found that those who looked at photos of loved ones while they were subjected to heat on their arms were able to tolerate more pain. The subjects were able to tolerate more pain when they were looking at photos of their partners than when they were viewing photos of objects or strangers, the researchers found.

The researchers concluded that "seeing photographs of loved ones may prime associated mental representations of being loved and supported, which may be sufficient to attenuate pain experience. The findings suggest that bringing loved ones' photographs to painful procedures may be beneficial, particularly if those individuals cannot be there. In fact, because loved ones vary in their ability to provide support, photographs may, in some cases, be more effective than in-person support.

"In sum, these findings challenge the notion that the beneficial effects of social support come solely from supportive social interactions and suggest that simple reminders of loved ones may be sufficient to engender feelings of support."

Authors of the study say, "the next time you are going through a stressful or painful experience, if you cannot bring a loved one with you, a photo may do."

Ref: Eisenberger, Naomi PhD Journal of Psychological Science. November 2009.