Comparison of Stressors and Coping Strategies between Patients with Somatization Disorder and Non-Patient Counterparts

Somatoform disorders and other somatic symptoms that cannot be fully explained by physical symptoms are particularly prevalent in the medical field. Therefore، the research purpose is to draw a comparison of stressors and coping strategies between affected and non-effected individuals. Hence، 30 individuals were selected using convenience sampling and compared to 30 non-patient counterparts in terms of stressful events and coping strategies. Results of variance multivariate analysis indicated that patients suffering from somatization disorder had more considerable experience and more comprehensive evaluation of such stressful events. What’s more، affected individuals mainly used emotion-focused and physical-focused coping strategies and the use of problem-focused strategies was less frequent as compared to the control group. No between-group difference was observed regarding appraisal-focused (adaptive cognitive) and seeking social support strategies. As a result، closer cooperation is nevertheless needed between the medicines and well-qualified clinical psychologists specialized in behavior therapy to provide this population with the required service.