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Children of people with somatization disorder

R Livingston1

  • 1University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock.

Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
|May 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Children with a parent diagnosed with somatization disorder (SD-P) face increased risks of psychiatric disorders, suicidal behavior, and child abuse. Early detection and integrated care are crucial for these vulnerable children.

Area of Science:

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Psychosomatic Medicine
  • Pediatric Health

Background:

  • Somatization disorder (SD) significantly impacts families, yet the specific risks for children of affected parents are not fully understood.
  • Understanding the psychopathology and health outcomes in children of parents with SD is critical for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate psychopathology, suicidal behavior, child abuse, somatization, and healthcare utilization in children with a parent diagnosed with somatization disorder (SD-P).
  • To compare these outcomes with children of somatizing parents (SOM) and pediatric controls (CON).

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the Diagnostic Interview for Children and Adolescents (child and parent versions) for diagnoses and symptom counts.
  • Reviewed and abstracted medical records for health care utilization and maltreatment data.

Main Results:

  • Children of SD-P exhibited significantly higher rates of psychiatric disorders and suicide attempts compared to SOM and CON groups.
  • SD-P children experienced more unexplained physical symptoms and a trend towards increased hospitalizations.
  • Significantly higher rates of maltreatment were reported in the SD-P group.

Conclusions:

  • Children of parents with somatization disorder are at substantial risk across multiple domains, including mental health and safety.
  • Highlights the need for collaborative efforts between general psychiatrists, primary care physicians, and child psychiatrists for early detection and treatment.
  • Emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to address the complex needs of these children.
Abstract

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