A positive correlation between the frequency of headache and the frequency of stressful events was demonstrated in a sample of 114 headache sufferers. The strength of this relationship was shown to be moderated by the level of self-efficacy, defined as the individual's perceived capacity to exercise self-control over their cognitive, behavioral, and affective responses to stressful events. The relationship between stressful events and headache was strongest for subjects low in self-efficacy and became progressively weaker as self-efficacy increased. It was concluded that self-efficacy may be an important psychological resource buffering the impact of stress on the frequency of headache. Theoretical implications and indications for further research are discussed.

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Objectives The present study sought to develop a new psychometrically sound measure of ontological insecurity, the OIS‐34 and, determine its relationship with subclinical psychotic‐like experiences (PLEs). Methods A nonclinical sample (N = 600) completed an initial 60‐item version of the new scale along with measures of PLEs, psychosis proneness, and mental health history. Results Exploratory factor analysis indicated a single factor, ontological insecurity, with 34 items loading positively and above a criterion of 0.4. Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were excellent. The OIS‐34 correlated positively and significantly with psychosis proneness and subclinical positive and negative symptom PLEs. The OIS‐34 also differentiated significantly between participants with and without a history of mental health problems, including psychosis. Conclusions The OIS‐34 appears to represent a psychometrically sound measure of ontological insecurity. The results suggest that the concept is associated with PLEs. Directions for further research are discussed.

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One hundred fourteen headache sufferers recorded their headaches, stressful events, appraisal processes, and coping responses over a 28 day period. Stressful events were found to precede headache attacks more often than periods of headache freedom. Primary appraisals (how much the event mattered), levels of affective regulation coping and ratings of emotional upset were all higher for stressful events that were not associated with subsequent headache. Stressful events occurring during headache were followed by increases in the intensity of the attack. In such instances, avoidance coping was associated with higher ratings of headache intensity following the event and direct coping with lower post-event ratings. It was concluded that stressful events may be causally related to headache and that the ways in which headache sufferers respond to these events may also have implications for the onset and intensity of attacks.