The Role of Psychological Process in a Somatic Disorder: Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

In 32 patients from the United States and Israel with multiple sclerosis the role of psychological processes was examined in relationship to the transitional period between health and the onset of disease. In 28 of these patients the emergence of symptoms ultimately diagnosed as those of the demyelinating disorder occurred in conjunction with a psychologically stressful situation. The corresponding intra-psychic state was characterized by difficulty in coping and feelings of helplessness. In spite of cultural differences among the patients there was an impressive similarity in these psychological processes. Illustrative case material is presented.