Axis I: Somatoform Disorder
Jackie Ostrov
5/25/2008
Case Study 4: Hypochondria
Axis I: Hypochondria is a Somatoform Disorder, because by definition “disorders in this category include those where the symptoms suggest a medical condition but where no medical condition can be found by a physician.” (http://allpsych.com/disorders/ somatoform/hypochondriac.html) Thus, the person may experience pain, which has no biological of physical cause. However, what distinguishes Hypochondria is the fact that the person who feels the pain usually transfers these symptoms to a more serious problem that does not actually exist. Wally Graham appears distraught throughout the study, because he feels that his illness is simply being overlooked. Thus, he becomes extremely skeptical of the clinician’s clear diagnosis. However, throughout the study the doctor tries to console Wally through rationalization, by saying “nothing is wrong—no cancer, no ulcer, not even gastritis.” He continues by stating that all of Wally’s previous check-ups were clear as well. Yet, Wally gradually becomes angry because Wally in fact does and has felt these painful sensations for a number of years. The doctor tries to console Wally that his problem my have originated elsewhere, because even their most …show more content…
The therapist would most likely teach one to stop behavior that would lead to an increase in anxiety, such as body vigilance. The therapist may also use exposure therapy, to have Wally directly address his fears in a safe environment, where he can learn to adjust to his anxiety. Also, because Wally has felt a little depressed I might subscribe anti-depressant medication, which could relieve such symptoms as anxiety, or intense fear of disease. (http://www.mayoclinic.com
5/25/2008
Case Study 4: Hypochondria
Axis I: Hypochondria is a Somatoform Disorder, because by definition “disorders in this category include those where the symptoms suggest a medical condition but where no medical condition can be found by a physician.” (http://allpsych.com/disorders/ somatoform/hypochondriac.html) Thus, the person may experience pain, which has no biological of physical cause. However, what distinguishes Hypochondria is the fact that the person who feels the pain usually transfers these symptoms to a more serious problem that does not actually exist. Wally Graham appears distraught throughout the study, because he feels that his illness is simply being overlooked. Thus, he becomes extremely skeptical of the clinician’s clear diagnosis. However, throughout the study the doctor tries to console Wally through rationalization, by saying “nothing is wrong—no cancer, no ulcer, not even gastritis.” He continues by stating that all of Wally’s previous check-ups were clear as well. Yet, Wally gradually becomes angry because Wally in fact does and has felt these painful sensations for a number of years. The doctor tries to console Wally that his problem my have originated elsewhere, because even their most …show more content…
The therapist would most likely teach one to stop behavior that would lead to an increase in anxiety, such as body vigilance. The therapist may also use exposure therapy, to have Wally directly address his fears in a safe environment, where he can learn to adjust to his anxiety. Also, because Wally has felt a little depressed I might subscribe anti-depressant medication, which could relieve such symptoms as anxiety, or intense fear of disease. (http://www.mayoclinic.com