Which of the following best describes a somatic symptom disorder?

• A. A disorder in which a person experiences persistent delusions and hallucinations unrelated to physical health.
• B. A personality disorder involving unstable relationships, self-image, and emotions.
• C. A psychological disorder characterized by excessive focus on physical symptoms that cause significant distress or impairment, even when no medical explanation is found.
• D. A mood disorder marked by periods of extreme sadness and loss of interest in daily activities.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of somatic symptom disorder. It is a psychological condition where an individual experiences excessive focus on physical symptoms, which causes significant distress or impairment in daily functioning.
2. Step 2: Recognize that these physical symptoms may or may not have a clear medical explanation, but the key feature is the disproportionate concern and anxiety about these symptoms.
3. Step 3: Differentiate somatic symptom disorder from other psychological disorders by noting that it centers on physical symptoms rather than mood, personality traits, or psychotic features like delusions or hallucinations.
4. Step 4: Review the options given and identify which description aligns with the excessive focus on physical symptoms and related distress, which is the hallmark of somatic symptom disorder.
5. Step 5: Confirm that the correct choice describes a psychological disorder characterized by excessive concern with physical symptoms causing distress or impairment, even when no medical cause is found.