Increased behavioural inhibition and decreased behavioural activation in whiplash‐associated disorders: Associations with health outcomes

Motivation can be investigated with the BIS (Behavioural Inhibition System)/BAS (Behavioural Activation System) scale. BAS regulates the motivation to approach goal-oriented outcomes, particularly rewarding stimuli and situations, while BIS regulates escape and avoidance of unpleasant outcomes. Chronic whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) is a heterogenous pain condition with known alterations in motivated behaviour. The study aimed (1) to investigate the relationship between BIS/BAS, and pain and disability with quality of life and psychological measures in chronic WAD; (2) to determine if BIS and/or BAS mediate the relationships between pain, disability, and psychological symptoms and quality of life.