[Genetics and somatoform disorders].

Abstract

The nosological status of somatoform disorders has long been unclear. Only with DSM-III in 1980 did the situation become more settled. This means that earlier theoretical speculation and empirical investigations are difficult to evaluate. It has not been possible to confirm empirically many psychoanalytic notions about environmental causes of somatoform disorders; however, Freud's emphasis on a genetic basis seems to be confirmed. Furthermore, genetic research suggests a certain connection between alcoholism and criminality on the one hand and somatization disorders on the other. This does not mean that manifest alcoholism and criminality is prevalent among people with somatoform disorders. Cultural, gender-specific barriers and environmental factors prevent much co-morbidity. It should, however, be noted that little research has been taking place over the last 25-30 years; we could hardly be said to be beginning to understand the interplay between genes and environment in the development of somatoform disorders.