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Hypochondriasis and somatosensory amplification.

A J Barsky1, G Wyshak

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.

The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|September 1, 1990
PubMed
Summary
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This study found that amplification, the tendency to focus on bodily sensations, significantly predicts hypochondriasis (health anxiety). This relationship is stronger in women and linked to fears of death and illness history.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Psychiatry
  • Medical Psychology

Background:

  • Hypochondriasis, characterized by excessive health concerns, significantly impacts patient well-being.
  • Understanding the psychological factors contributing to hypochondriasis is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between somatosensory amplification and hypochondriasis in out-patients.
  • To explore demographic and psychological factors influencing hypochondriasis.

Main Methods:

  • A self-report questionnaire was administered to 177 out-patients.
  • Statistical analyses, including zero-order correlation and stepwise multiple regression, were employed.

Main Results:

  • Amplification showed a strong correlation (0.56) with hypochondriasis, explaining 31% of its variance.

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  • Fears of aging/death and family illness history increased the explained variance to 50%.
  • Amplification was a significant correlate of somatisation (12% variance), particularly in women.

    • Conclusions:

    • Somatosensory amplification is a significant psychological factor in hypochondriasis.
    • Gender and specific fears influence the manifestation and severity of hypochondriasis.
    • Findings support the role of somatosensory amplification in the development of hypochondriasis.