Often parents feel that sick behaviors are an inevitable part of having pain. Parents may allow sick behavior because they want their child to be able to communicate with them or they want their child to know they are cared for. As a result, it is often difficult to know what is excessive sick behavior and when to encourage healthy behavior. A general rule of thumb is that if a behavior leads to disability or withdrawal, then it is sick behavior.

Children and teens who display excessive sick behavior: have more pain, feel worse, cope less well, become socially isolated, become discouraged, and give in to their pain. 

Excessive sick behavior undermines effective coping and reduces the child or teen's feelings of control.