Somatoform disorders and body image

Author(s): Clement, U.

Journal/Book: Z Psychosom Med Psychoanal. 1998; 44: Theaterstrasse 13, Postfach 77, W-37070 Gottingen, Germany. Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht. 268-278.

Abstract: The study examines the body image of patients with somatoform disorders. Body image was assessed using a body image questionnaire (FKB-20) in patients with somatoform disorders (n = 44), patients with anxiety disorders (n = 44), patients with depressive disorders (n = 45), patients with anorexia (n = 31), patients with transsexualism (n = 29) and a normal control group (n = 349). Concerning body image of patients with somatoform disorders, a characteristic profile was found: (I) Patients with somatoform disorders showed a less negative evaluation of their own body (e. G. Body appearance) than patients with transsexualism, whereas their perception of body dynamics (e. G. Power, health) was more disturbed. (2) Compared with anorectic patients, their body evaluation as well as perception of body dynamics was more positive. (3) There are no differences in body evaluation or in perception of body dynamics between patients with somatoform disorders and patients with depressive disorders. (4) Compared with patients with anxiety disorders, there is no difference in body evaluation, however a more positive perception of body dynamics in patients with somatoform disorders was found. Altogether, the body image of patients with somatoform disorders is similar to the body image of depressive patients, whereas it can be clearly differentiated from the body image of normal controls and patients with anorexia and transsexualism.

Note: Article Lowe B, Univ Heidelberg, Med Klin, Innere Med ABT 2, Schwerpunkt Allgemeine Klin & Psychosomat Med, D-69115 Heidelberg, GERMANY

Keyword(s): somatoform disorders; body image; psychosomatic medicine; questionnaires; VALIDATION; SYMPTOMS; FKB-20

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Somatoform disorders and body image - a comparative study