Relationship between physical and psychiatric disorder

Abstract

Synopsis The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that there is a positive association between physical and psychiatric disorder. The study was designed to reduce potential sources of bias and the approach included random sampling of a general practice population; independent assessments of the physical and psychiatric states using objective methods and strict criteria for diagnosis; and the use of a control group. The results suggest that the hypothesis is confirmed and furthermore that ‘clustering’ of both types of disorder occurred in some individuals.