LMSW Practice Test

Eileen, who has seen many specialists for her various physical symptoms over the past 10 years, may be diagnosed with:

1. A conversion disorder

2. A psychogenic pain disorder

3. A somatization disorder

4. Hypochondriasis

The correct answer is: A conversion disorder

Eileen's situation, marked by a long history of physical symptoms that have led her to consult numerous specialists without a clear medical diagnosis, aligns closely with a conversion disorder. This condition presents with neurological symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical evaluation, often occurring when psychological distress is converted into physical symptoms. The focus here is on the way psychological factors manifest as physical changes or symptoms, which is characteristic of conversion disorder. It is essential to note that the symptoms are genuine in nature, even though they lack a comprehensive medical basis. While psychogenic pain disorders involve pain that is influenced by psychological factors, and somatization disorder involves a pattern of multiple, recurrent physical complaints, Eileen's extensive journey through various specialist evaluations suggests that her symptoms could be presenting as a conversion disorder, whereby psychological stress is expressed through physical symptoms. Hypochondriasis, characterized by an excessive preoccupation with having a serious illness, does not fit Eileen's 10-year pattern of unexplained physical symptoms as closely.