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Behavioral management of conversion disorder in children
J L Gooch1, R Wolcott, J Speed
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Primary Children's Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Behavioral interventions effectively managed conversion disorder in pediatric patients, restoring function and independence. Stress and pain management education are key to long-term recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Conversion disorder presents unique challenges in pediatric populations.
- Effective behavioral management strategies are crucial for functional recovery.
Observation:
- A retrospective case series of eight pediatric patients (ages 9-18) with conversion disorder was analyzed.
- Inpatient behavioral interventions included identifying and modifying inadvertent reinforcement of illness behaviors.
- Reward systems and level systems were implemented for goal achievement, alongside psychological assessment and stress management training.
Findings:
- All pediatric patients achieved normal gait and independence in activities of daily living (ADL) prior to discharge.
- The behavioral approach, including reinforcement systems and stress management, proved effective in this cohort.
Implications:
- Behavioral management of pediatric conversion disorder is effective, potentially requiring structured reinforcement systems.
- Patient and family education in pain and stress management is vital for sustained treatment outcomes and preventing symptom recurrence.