Discuss variables that contribute to an individual's experience of pain.

Pain is influenced by many variables that contribute to an individual's experience of pain. The sex of an individual provides genetic and hormonal influence. Gender adds numerous complex components that include an array of socially constructed roles and relationships, personality traits, attitudes, behaviors, values, and relative power and influence. Other factors, such as age, physical health, mental health, emotional status, expectations, previous experiences, learned responses, and ethnic and cultural norms also impact the pain experience.