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Breaking the Cycle: Extending the Persistent Pain Cycle Diagram Using an Affective Pictorial Metaphor

This paper reviewed an extensive sample (50) of pain-cycle diagrams in use on-line and for the first time categorises them to identify limitations. The study showed how most pain-cycle diagrams do not feature the positive virtuous circle alternatives and thus take an overly negative approach. It applies the theories of Karaberg to argue for a more positive approach to their design and presents an example of how this can be achieved. This paper is significant for any health communicator or designer who wish to show vicious cycle diagrams, or indeed other diagrams related to positive behavioural change, in patient information.