Which of the following is a defining feature of Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Which of the following is a defining feature of Somatic Symptom Disorder?

• A. Presence of multiple psychological disorders
• B. One or more distressing/disruptive somatic symptom
• C. Inability to carry out daily activities
• D. Symptoms must appear after a traumatic event

Answer: (B)

The defining feature of Somatic Symptom Disorder is indeed the presence of one or more distressing or disruptive somatic symptoms. This disorder is characterized by significant focus on physical symptoms that cause distress and impair functioning, but the symptoms cannot be fully explained by a medical condition. The individual with this disorder experiences excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to the somatic symptoms, highlighting the psychological component of the condition. This focus on somatic symptoms distinguishes Somatic Symptom Disorder from other disorders, as it emphasizes the emotional and psychological impact of these symptoms rather than merely the physical complaints. The distress experienced by the individual can often lead to significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, which further emphasizes the importance of the somatic symptoms in the diagnosis. In contrast, the presence of multiple psychological disorders does not specifically characterize Somatic Symptom Disorder, as it can occur with or without the presence of other psychological conditions. Similarly, while daily activities may be disrupted due to the distress caused by somatic symptoms, it is not a definitive feature of the disorder. Lastly, the symptoms do not necessarily have to appear after a traumatic event, as Somatic Symptom Disorder can develop independently of any specific trauma. Thus, the correct answer accurately

The defining feature of Somatic Symptom Disorder is indeed the presence of one or more distressing or disruptive somatic symptoms. This disorder is characterized by significant focus on physical symptoms that cause distress and impair functioning, but the symptoms cannot be fully explained by a medical condition. The individual with this disorder experiences excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to the somatic symptoms, highlighting the psychological component of the condition.

This focus on somatic symptoms distinguishes Somatic Symptom Disorder from other disorders, as it emphasizes the emotional and psychological impact of these symptoms rather than merely the physical complaints. The distress experienced by the individual can often lead to significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, which further emphasizes the importance of the somatic symptoms in the diagnosis.

In contrast, the presence of multiple psychological disorders does not specifically characterize Somatic Symptom Disorder, as it can occur with or without the presence of other psychological conditions. Similarly, while daily activities may be disrupted due to the distress caused by somatic symptoms, it is not a definitive feature of the disorder. Lastly, the symptoms do not necessarily have to appear after a traumatic event, as Somatic Symptom Disorder can develop independently of any specific trauma. Thus, the correct answer accurately