BackgroundSomatoform disorders, as defined on Merriam-Webster.com, state: “Any group of psychological disorders (such as body dysmorphic disorder or hypochondriasis) characterized by physical complaints for which no no organic or physiological explanation is found and for which there is a strong probability that psychological factors are involved. So what does it mean? Basically, somatoform disorders include mental factors that are often caused by physical symptoms, but no physical source or psychological cause. The symptoms are therefore imaginary, but this sheds no light on the situation causing distress and can often be long-term (Kenny, 2011). The DSM-V, the diagnostic and statistical manual published in May 2013, now classifies it as “Somatic Symptoms and Related Disorders.” This new name groups together numerous categories of disorders related to somatoform disorders. Different disorders include; somatization, hypochondriasis, conversion, body dysmorphia, and pain disorder (Kenny, 2011).DSM-VThe DSM-V plays a huge role in the classification and treatment of somatoform disorders. It was only with this model that somatoform was not just one category, but had multiple subcategories within it. That said, the DSM-V has received a lot of harsh criticism for its lack of scientific evidence for specific classifications and for unclear boundaries between daily stressors and a classified "disease." However, with constant progress, new information, new disorders, and treatments, the DSM, regardless of version, will always be criticized for one thing or another (McCarron, 2013). Returning to the DSM-4, which is still used by many in the world of psychology, they classified somatization as a necessity... middle of paper... the patient complained, they had to avoid diagnostic procedures and surgical interventions unless previously indicated, and finally they had to abstain from making claims that their symptoms are “all in their head” (Woolfolk, 2010). Conclusion In conclusion, somatoform disorders should be treated with caution. Upsetting a patient or even digging too deeply to find information or the cause of an illness could potentially make the patient even worse. Professionals who regularly use the DSM-V should be aware of the changes and advances that the DSM will continue to make. Different symptoms can include pain, gastrointestinal discomfort, sexual symptoms and neurological problems. Several disorders include somatization, hypochondriasis, conversion, body dysmorphic disorder, pseudocyesis, and both pain and undifferentiated somatization in combination with posttraumatic stress disorder..
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