ABSTRACT
Introduction Hypochondriasis is defined in DSM III-R as an unrealistic interpretation of bodily sensations, leading to preoccupation with the fear of, or belief that one has, a serious disease, despite medical reassurance (American Psychiatric Association 1987). There are no reliable estimates of the prevalence of hypochondriasis, but it has been estimated that 30-80 per cent of patients who consult physicians, present with symptoms for which there is no physical basis (see Barsky and Klerman 1983). Despite the implications for resources at all levels of medical practice, current treatment of hypochondriasis is unsatisfactory and its prognosis is generally regarded as poor (Nemiah 1985), indicating the need for new approaches to understanding and treatment of this problem.
