Abstract Examined how 24 Arab-American (ARA), 24 Asian-American (ASA), and 24 Latin-American (LA) children (aged 9–12 yrs) perceived, described, and responded to painful experiences. Ss were interviewed over a 6-mo period at home, in school, or at a recreational facility; the interview schedule was adapted from a pain questionnaire developed by M. Savedra et al (see record 1983-21423-001). Findings show that the range of physical and psychological causes of pain did not differ widely among the 3 groups, suggesting that causative factors of pain in children are likely to be universal. ARA and LA Ss were more likely to use sensory words to describe pain, while ASA Ss tended to use more affective and evaluative words. The range and type of description of Ss' feelings varied by group, as did coping strategies. Implications for managing and assessing children's pain coping strategies by health professionals are discussed. (25 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)