Random article ( of 1091 ) Latest updates

User Tools

Site Tools


content:psychology:disorders:psychogenic_pain

Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of Unknowns Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of the Unknown

Psychogenic pain

Psychogenic pain, a.k.a. persistent somatoform pain disorder and functional pain syndrome has been defined as physical pain that is caused, increased, or prolonged by mental, emotional, or behavioral factors.

It may be linked to stress, unexpressed emotional conflicts, psychosocial problems, or various mental disorders. It's often diagnosed when patients complain of persistent pain, but no evidence of physical tissue damage or malfunction can be found.

It's unknown how mental activity can cause real physical pain. It's also unknown why the syndrome has developed through evolution. Some theorists suggest that the pain could have arisen as a 'distraction' to keep emotional responses under control - though this is as yet unproven.

See : Wikipedia

THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT USE TRACKING, ADVERTISING, OR ANALYTICAL COOKIES OF ANY KIND. All essential cookies (for login status etc) are automatically deleted at the end of the session full details here

Show another (random) article

Suggestions for corrections and ideas for articles are welcomed : Get in touch!


Further resources :