Biography and illness. Social events and conflicting socialization in patients with psychosomatic diseases

Author(s): Rudolf, G.

Journal/Book: Kolner Z Soziol Sozialpsychol. 1997; 49: Postfach 5829, W-6200 Wiesbaden, Germany. Westdeutscher Verlag GmbH. 674.

Abstract: The influence of social events as well as forms of family interaction and socialization during childhood are discussed for patients with psychic or psychosomatic symptoms. Using a cluster analysis on a clinical population of 400 patients, it could be demonstrated that besides social events, which are frequently recognized as having a burdening effect, problematic forms of interaction as part of socialization during childhood cah also further a tendency towards illness in adulthood. The results demonstrate gender-related differences with regard to both the form as well as the accumulation of biographical burdens on the one hand and symptoms on the other. For women social burdens dominate whereas for men the emphasis may be found in patterns of interaction. On the symptomatic level, a tendency towards somatization and disturbances in relationships may be found for women; for men an extreme orientation towards social values to stabilize the self and low social integration could be demonstrated. The cluster analysis further supports the hypothesis that with an increase in burdening biographic experiences during childhood the severity of individual symptoms - especially neurotic symptoms - is rising.

Note: Article Motzkau H, Univ Heidelberg, Psychosomat Klin, Thibautstr 2, D-69115 Heidelberg, GERMANY

Keyword(s): DISORDERS

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