A facet theoretical approach to psychosomatic complaints

Z. Ben-Sira, U. Aviram, I. Stern, I. Shoham

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

A revised formal theoretical framework outlining systematically a set of factors that may lead to the expression of physical complaints without organic basis as a consequence of, or as means for coping with emotional stress is proposed. The classic epidemiological model (the epidemiological triangle Agent - Host - Environment) has been considered a useful point of departure for the revised approach. Due to the vagueness of the evidence regarding the 'agent's' role in the cause of mental disturbance, the interaction between 'host' and 'environment' was considered as a central element in understanding the process of breakdown. The more the demands posed on an individual and the less his resources, the higher the chances for the disturbance of the equilibrium. It is also proposed that the less an individual's resources, the more his dependence on environmental resources (such as community services, etc.). Lack of appropriate community services may lead an individual to the medical service as a resource 'secondary gain' or legitimization of failure) or as an outcome of the disturbance of the equilibrium (breakdown). Presentation of diffuse complaints and recurrent visits may lead the physician to a decision to define the case as mental and to direct the individual to a mental health clinic. The proposed model has been applied in an analytical analysis aimed at furthering the understanding of the association between psychosomatic complaints and social class and migration.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)219-231
Number of pages13
JournalIsrael Annals of Psychiatry and Related Disciplines
Volume16
Issue number3
StatePublished - 1978
Externally publishedYes

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