Why is pain worse from someone else eg pulling one of your hairs out than when you do it yourself?

Answer 1

For the same reason that you can be tickled by someone else but not yourself. In both cases you are trying to stimulate sensory nerve endings on your body. When you do it, the brain is required to process the motor action of applying the pain-that is- pulling the hair, and at the same time, respond to the action of hair pulling. Your giving your brain "double duty" and so the brain is somewhat distracted when you do it to yourself. When someone else pulls your hair, or tickles you, as I have suggested,your brain has only to focus on the action being applied, either the hair pulling or tickling. You therefore have no other major brain action to distract you since you are not applying the stimulus, i.e., hair pulling, and so your able to gain a greater pain response, or laughter, in the case of tickling.

Answer 2

With all pain, there is whats called 'the pain thresh-hold'; it varies from person to person. But, when you expect any level of pain, your body goes into "fight or flight" mode; your adrenaline flows through your blood to prepare for the "shock", therefore making pain more bearable. An posible exception to this rule is when you are unexpectedly hit an auto accident. Some physicians believe that it's easier on the human body to take this kind of pain trauma when the body is relaxed or slightly limp. Likewise, when you see a car approaching and expect to be hit, the body tenses up, therefore causing more severe injuries; but again, it's a paradox, because in the case of the later, the pain may not be as bad initially, but the injuries may be worse. Like anything you work at, the human pain-threshold decreases in time and your body adjusts, then slowly becomes tolerant and more resistent. Pain is a vital part of life and positive growth; not just physically but, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, etc. The old addage holds true, "NO PAIN, NO GAIN"

Answer 3

Probably for the same reason that you can't tickle yourself. Some of the sensation is derived from the anticipation of the pain. Not being in control worsens the sensation.

Answer 4

When you pull your hair out yourself you are prepared for what you're going to do beacuse you know what you're going to do to yourself. You can't control what someone else else does, where they grab the hair, how hard they pull, ect.

Answer 5

because your body tenses up ready for that painful encounter when u do it yourself,i tried to do my bikini line myself once with wax strips,Jesus i nearly went through the ceiling now i see a beautician every 4 weeks,still stings but at least i stay grounded.

Answer 6

I wouldn't know. I'm completely bald since I bathe in Immac. Grow hair? I'd rather sell my soul to the Devil.

Answer 7

there is an emotional element to suffering pain
indignation
unfair treatment
victim takes u back to childhood
wanting revenge keeps the *pot boiling*