Conversion disorder is characterized by: a. Symptoms affecting motor or sensory functions without medical cause b. Persistent worry about having a serious illness c. Pain that is exacerbated by psychological factors d. Symptoms that are intentionally produced for external gain
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct answer: a. Symptoms affecting motor or sensory functions without medical cause
Explanation:
Conversion disorder, also known as Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder, is a mental health condition where a person experiences neurological symptoms that cannot be explained by any medical or neurological condition. These symptoms typically affect voluntary motor or sensory functions such as movement, coordination, vision, hearing, or sensation. The hallmark of the disorder is that these symptoms are real to the patient but are not caused by physical damage or disease.
People with conversion disorder might suddenly lose the ability to walk, speak, see, or hear. Others may develop seizures or paralysis. However, medical testing usually does not reveal any identifiable physical problem. The symptoms are not under the person’s conscious control, meaning they are not faking them. The individual is not intentionally causing the symptoms, unlike in factitious disorder or malingering.
Conversion disorder often develops in response to psychological stress or trauma. For instance, someone may develop leg paralysis after experiencing a deeply traumatic event. While the body is physically capable of movement, the brain prevents the motor functions from working properly, showing how psychological distress can manifest physically.
The other options describe different disorders. Option b refers to illness anxiety disorder, where the individual constantly fears having a serious illness. Option c is related to somatic symptom disorder, where pain and other symptoms are significantly influenced by psychological factors. Option d describes malingering or factitious disorder, where symptoms are produced intentionally for external benefits or attention.
In summary, conversion disorder involves genuine symptoms that resemble neurological conditions but lack a medical cause. The disorder is rooted in psychological factors and requires a comprehensive approach that includes both psychological and medical care for accurate diagnosis and treatment.