ABSTRACT

In this chapter I first explore the understanding we have of the relationship between different types of bodily symptoms that might be provoked by emotional disorders. This leads to consideration of the distinctions between psychophysiological symptoms, conversion symptoms, hypochondriasis, and somatisation. The way in which these different factors contribute to the selection process of medical patients is also taken into account. Some of the common so-called psychosomatic symptoms are examined in the light of these considerations and then different rehabilitation procedures are considered.