DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/734W-AP75

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0003-3010-5885

Defense Date

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Robin Everhart

Second Advisor

Dr. Eric Benotsch

Third Advisor

Dr. Ann Haynos

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Kristina Hood

Fifth Advisor

Dr. Trang Le

Abstract

Needle fear affects up to 63% of the global adult population and is associated with significant fear-based medical care avoidance (e.g., blood donation refusal, vaccine hesitancy, insulin injection adherence). Current behavioral treatments have low acceptance in this population, and often fail to address the experience of pain associated with needle procedures. Despite the existence of evidence-based pain-mitigation for needle procedures, these interventions are not commonly used in clinical settings. The current study used qualitative methods to examine patient and provider perceptions of: 1) current methods of needle fear management, and 2) the acceptability of pain-mitigation as an effective tool to manage needle fear. To gain patient and healthcare provider insights into needle fear management in clinical settings, four focus groups were conducted with patients (n = 25) and in-depth interviews were conducted with health care providers (e.g., phlebotomists, nurses; n = 9). Four themes emerged from patient focus groups pertaining to needle fear experiences and management: negative experiences sustain anxiety, knowledge and management, medical engagement, and communication. Among providers, the primary theme that arose regarding current management of needle fear was lack of knowledge. Both patients and providers expressed cautious support for pain-mitigation tools. This caution was primarily associated with concerns of product effectiveness and a need for more administrative and institutional support for implementation. Findings suggest that patient and provider education about needle fear is needed to address stigma and management barriers in clinical settings. Additionally, engagement of institution leadership and administrative staff is required to overcome administrative barriers (e.g., costs, clinic policies) associated with the implementation of pain-mitigation interventions.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

4-22-2025

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