Somatic Symptoms Before Menarche: The Role of Parents and Pain Sensitivity

Genevieve E. Roth, Katherine M. Jabaay, Rebecca L. Silton, Frank F. Tu, Lynn S. Walker, Amy M. Bohnert, Matthew J. Kmiecik, Kevin M. Hellman, Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Endeavor Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

The Journal of Early Adolescence

Published online on June 11, 2026

Abstract

The Journal of Early Adolescence, Ahead of Print.
Somatic symptoms are common in adolescence and can predict later emotional distress, academic challenges, and chronic health problems. Their developmental origins, particularly before menarche, remain poorly understood. This cross-sectional study examined ...