Which of the following is considered an effective treatment approach for somatoform disorders?

• A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• B. Antipsychotic medication as the primary intervention
• C. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
• D. Surgical procedures to address physical symptoms

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that somatoform disorders involve physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition, and psychological factors play a significant role.
2. Recognize that effective treatment approaches focus on addressing the psychological aspects rather than purely physical interventions.
3. Identify Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a psychological treatment that helps patients manage symptoms by changing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors related to their physical complaints.
4. Note that antipsychotic medication, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and surgical procedures are generally not primary or effective treatments for somatoform disorders, as these focus on different conditions or physical causes.
5. Conclude that among the options, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective treatment approach for somatoform disorders.