PSYC 2030U Chapter 6&7: Abnormal Psych Ch. 6 & 7 Notes
Document Summary
Overly preoccupied with their health or body appearance. No identifiable medical condition causing the physical complaints. Onset at any age and runs in chronic course. Extended history of physical complaints before age 30. Substantial impairment in social and occupational functioning. Concerned over symptoms themselves, not what they might mean. Reduce the tendency to vist numerous medical specialists. Physical malfunctioning without and physical or organic pathology. Retain most normal functions without awareness of this ability. More prevalent in lower ses, less educated groups. Emphasis on the role of trauma, conversion, and primary/ secondary gain. Core stratgegy is attending to the trauma. Reduce supportive consequences of talk about physical symptoms. Often display ideas of reference for imagined defect. Most remain single, and many seek out plastic surgeons. Little is known though it tends to run in families. Detachment from the trauma and negative reinforcement seem critical. Medications (ssris) that work for ocd seem to provide some relief.
