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Former studies have revealed the impact of a negative view of the past on postoperative pain intensity and pain catastrophizing (i.e. pain vulnerability). In this study, we extensively examined the association between time perspective (TP) and pain vulnerability in a healthy sample. The Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, Pain Catastrophizing Scale and Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire were administered, along with evaluations of pictures about different painful situations (N = 226). Data analysis included examination of the impact of the unique contribution of the five TPs, the deviation from a balanced TP profile and defining different TP clusters on pain vulnerability. Results imply that a negative view of the past might increase sensitivity against physical pain and disrupt the affective processing of painful events, suggesting the relevance of TP in pain therapy.

Recent theoretical work on the Life History Theory and empirical findings on Machiavellianism suggest that Machiavellian individuals are motivated to acquire short-term benefits and prioritize situations with high potential rewards. Accordingly, in our study, we investigated the associations between reward/punishment sensitivity and Machiavellian interpersonal tactics with self-report measures. Moreover, as a first attempt, we investigated the correlates of Machiavellianism and the behavioral preference for rewards with the IOWA Gambling task (IGT). The results showed robust positive associations of Machiavellian behavioral characteristics with Sensitivity to Reward, and a moderately negative correlation with Sensitivity to Punishment. This finding was further supported by IGT: Machiavellians tended to make reward-oriented decisions.