The reciprocal relationship between somatic pain and mental fatigue among adolescents: a cross-lagged study in China

Somatic pain and mental fatigue can interact over time among Chinese adolescents. Gender moderates this interaction, with a reciprocal relationship observed only in male adolescents. Female adolescents experience more somatic pain and higher levels of mental fatigue than their male counterparts. Interventions targeting somatic pain and mental fatigue are necessary, with particular attention directed towards female adolescents.