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Psychosomatic medicine: past and present. Part II. Current state
Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Revue Canadienne De Psychiatrie
|February 1, 1986
Summary
Psychosomatic medicine has shifted from psychoanalysis to studying physiological mechanisms linking psychological states and physical health. Current research emphasizes psychosocial stress, coping, and social support in illness.
Area of Science:
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Psychophysiology
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Historically, psychosomatic medicine was dominated by psychoanalytic theory.
- The field has evolved, moving towards understanding physiological pathways.
- Current research focuses on the interplay between psychological factors and physical illness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current scientific and clinical status of psychosomatic medicine.
- To define the scope of the field.
- To highlight the shift from psychoanalytic approaches to a focus on psychophysiological mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical practices in psychosomatic medicine.
- Analysis of theoretical concepts such as psychosocial stress, coping, and social support.
- Examination of research scope, diversity, and methodological advancements.
Main Results:
- A significant shift from psychoanalytic dominance to a focus on physiological mechanisms.
- Increased emphasis on psychosocial stress, response specificity, coping, adaptation, and social support.
- Expansion of clinical applications, including consultation-liaison psychiatry and behavioral medicine.
Conclusions:
- Psychosomatic medicine now integrates psychological states with physiological responses in health and disease.
- The field's research and clinical applications have grown in sophistication and scope.
- Key concepts include psychosocial stress, psychophysiological responses, and social support in understanding physical illnesses.