Attachment and interpersonal communication in somatization

Author(s): Noyes, R.

Journal/Book: Psychosomatics. 1999; 40: 1400 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA. Amer Psychiatric Association. 34-43.

Abstract: The authors review the research on childhood antecedents and personality contributions to the somatoform disorders, as well as research on social influences during adulthood. Based on these data, the authors hypothesize that somatizing patients display anxious attachment behavior that derives from childhood experiences with caregivers. Early exposure to illness increases the likelihood that distress will be manifested somatically. When under stress as adults, somatizers use physical complaints to elicit care. Somatizers' interpersonal interactions with others, including physicians, ultimately lead to rejection that reinforces the somatizer's belief that he or she will be abandoned. Modification of physicians' responses to these patients may improve treatment outcomes.

Note: Article Stuart S, Univ Iowa, Dept Psychiat, 200 Hawkins Dr, Iowa City,IA 52242 USA

Keyword(s): CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE; BRIQUETS SYNDROME HYSTERIA; CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN; PERSONALITY-DISORDERS; ANTISOCIAL PERSONALITY; PSYCHIATRIC DIAGNOSES; SOMATOFORM DISORDERS; CONVERSION REACTIONS; ILLNESS BEHAVIOR; ADOLESCENTS

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