Definition, practice, and teaching of psychosomatics. A global survey

Two sets of overlapping questionnaires were distributed world-wide via college members to 200 psychiatrists and 200 physicians. 50% of psychiatrists (n = 101) and 30% of physicians (n = 63), replied, representing 25 countries. Areas surveyed include definitions of 'psychosomatics', physician-psychiatrist attitudes, liaison activities, teaching patterns and methods, and professional affiliation of respondents. Comparative statistical analysis of the two groups reveals significant response differences in certain conceptualizations of 'psychosomatics' and in the diagnostic distribution of referred patients. Cross-continental comparisons revealed greater acceptance of the term 'psychosomatics' by respondents from Asia, differences between North American and European conceptualizations, and a stronger attachment of the field in the Far East to academic departments of medicine as compared with the West.