Somatoform and Dissociative Disorders

Abstract

Key Points

• The somatoform disorders are psychiatric illnesses that present as physical disorders.
• The somatoform disorders are not to be confused with malingering which is the intentional production of symptoms to avoid some responsibility or duty.
• Somatization is a method of expressing anxiety and distress and is to be found in all cultural groups.
• The distress and suffering experienced by clients with a somatoform disorder is real, although the medical basis for their symptoms is not.
• Clients with a somatoform disorder are most frequently encountered in general health settings.
• The dissociative disorders are marked by an abrupt, but temporary change in consciousness, cognition, memory, identity or behaviour.