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Characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders in western China: a retrospective

Zhixu Fang1,2,3,4,5, Yuhang Li1,2,3,4,5, Lingling Xie1,2,3,4,5

  • 1Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014, China.

BMC Psychiatry
|January 13, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Dissociative (conversion) disorder in children is linked to socio-cultural factors and psychological traits. Positive outcomes in pediatric patients depend on parental involvement and supportive family environments.

Area of Science:

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Psychosomatic Medicine

Background:

  • Dissociative (conversion) disorder in children presents complex biopsychosocial challenges.
  • High rates of medical and psychiatric comorbidities are observed in pediatric patients.
  • Understanding specific characteristics and outcomes in diverse populations is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders in western China.
  • To explore the influence of socio-cultural and psychological factors on the disorder's presentation and prognosis.
  • To inform clinical practice and intervention strategies for this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 66 children diagnosed with dissociative (conversion) disorders.
  • Data collected included clinical presentations, socio-cultural variables, and psychological assessments.
  • Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to determine factors associated with treatment efficacy.

Main Results:

  • Nearly 70% of patients experienced antecedent stressors, with 45.5% being "left-behind" adolescents and 24.2% from single-parent families.
  • Introverted personalities (59.4%) and emotional instability (53.1%) were common; 19.7% of families were uncooperative.
  • Lower cognitive ability was linked to comorbid anxiety or depression (P < 0.01); positive outcomes correlated with parental closeness, cooperation, and paternal lower education level.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood dissociative (conversion) disorders are significantly influenced by socio-cultural and psychological factors.
  • Parental relationships and cooperation are key predictors of successful treatment outcomes.
  • Early identification and tailored interventions are vital for improving prognosis in pediatric dissociative disorders.
Abstract

Keywords:
ChildrenDissociative (conversion) disordersOutcomesPsychiatricSocio-cultural environmental factors

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