Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital

What is somatization?

Somatization is the substitution of somatic preoccupation for dysphoric affect in the form of complaints of physical symptoms and even illness (Arthur Kleinman, 1980.). Chinese in traditional society often express their dysphoric affect in physical terms, which enable them to assume a more legitimate “Sick Role”.  Medical professionals in Taiwan should be aware about this issue. When faced with patients with unusually frequent outpatient visits, referral to psychiatric department can be an option. Primary care physician can also consider giving a long interview to inquire about patient’s psychosocial stress. This may alleviate patient’s illness dramatically.

Reference:

1. Patient and healers in the context of culture. Arthur Kleinman 1980.
2. The doctor, his patient, and the illness. Michael Balint 1957.