Conversion disorder

Alternative names:

conversion type; hysterical neurosis

Definition:

The conversion of emotional distress or unconscious conflict into a physical symptom.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A conversion disorder is characterized by the loss of a bodily function, for example blindness, paralysis, or the inability to speak. The loss of physical function is involuntary, but diagnostic testing does not show a physical cause for the dysfunction. The symptom onset of this disorder is usually very sudden and follows a stressful experience. The loss of function may symbolize the underlying conflict associated with it. Psychodynamic theory interprets the cause of the symptoms as a defense mechanism that absorbs and neutralizes the anxiety generated by an unacceptable impulse or wish. Risk factors include a history of histrionic personality disorder or dependent personality disorder.