Somatization Disorder – a polysymptomatic syndrome – is a chronic preoccupation with somatic complaints, for which medical care is repeatedly sought, and clinical dilemmas often presented, resulting in disproportionate health care utilization. Affect is isolated or split off and attention is focused on the body, resulting in more awareness of the physical than of psychological aspects of the individual. As an Axis 1 disorder it may be accompanied by Borderline or Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorders or traits.
Replacing the concept of Hysteria which has been around since the second millennium, SD continues to arouse considerable controversy to the present day; with numerous requests that DSMV amend the diagnosis.
This presentation will:
1. Briefly describe the concept of somatization and Somatization Disorder
2. Discuss the psychotherapy attitude required and,
3. Illustrate with the help of clinical cases the conduct of psychotherapy in Somatization Disorder