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[Psychogenic seizures: domain for a hoca?]
B Kardels1, P Pérez González, K H Beine
1St. Marien-Hospital Hamm Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Lehrstuhl für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universität Witten-Herdecke Knappenstrasse 19, 59071 Hamm. marienhospital-hamm-psych@web.de
Psychiatrische Praxis
|June 29, 2001
Summary
This case study highlights a Turkish adolescent experiencing psychogenic seizures, with family denial of her psychiatric illness and preference for traditional healing over medical treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Cultural Anthropology
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Psychogenic seizures can be influenced by cultural beliefs and family dynamics.
- Understanding the socio-cultural context is crucial for managing psychiatric conditions.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old Turkish female presented with psychogenic seizures.
- Her family rejected a medical diagnosis and sought treatment from a Hoca (religious leader).
- The patient had a history of paternal maltreatment and sexual abuse by her brother at age eight.
Findings:
- Family denial and cultural beliefs impeded appropriate medical intervention for psychiatric illness.
- Childhood trauma may be a contributing factor to the development of psychogenic seizures.
Implications:
- This case underscores the challenges in treating psychiatric disorders within specific cultural contexts.
- Healthcare providers must navigate cultural sensitivities and family dynamics for effective patient care.
- Further research is needed on the intersection of cultural practices, trauma, and psychogenic seizures in adolescents.