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Independency of alexithymia and somatization. A factor analytic study
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Vienna, Austria.
Psychosomatics
|September 1, 1996
Summary
This study investigated alexithymia and somatization, finding they are distinct conditions. Factor analysis confirmed alexithymia and somatization are independent constructs, not overlapping symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Psychology
Background:
- Methodological limitations in assessing alexithymia persist.
- Debate continues on whether alexithymia and somatization are distinct or overlapping constructs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between alexithymia and somatization.
- To determine if alexithymia and somatization represent independent constructs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) and a DSM-III-R somatization disorder screening list.
- Conducted factor analysis on items from both scales in normal adults (n=379).
- Cross-validated findings in psychosomatic inpatients (n=125).
Main Results:
- Factor analysis revealed distinct factor loadings for alexithymia and somatization scales.
- Results were replicated and cross-validated in a separate patient sample.
- Demonstrated statistical independence between the two constructs.
Conclusions:
- Alexithymia and somatization are independent constructs.
- Supports the view that alexithymia and somatization do not share overlapping symptomatology.
- Clarifies methodological limitations in assessing alexithymia and somatization.