Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What is the primary focus of diagnosing Conversion Disorder?

1. Presence of multiple psychological disorders

2. Specific symptoms without identifiable physiological cause

3. Specification of psychological stressor related to symptoms

4. All life changes of the individual leading to symptoms

The correct answer is: Specification of psychological stressor related to symptoms

The primary focus of diagnosing Conversion Disorder is indeed the identification of specific symptoms that occur without an identifiable physiological cause. This condition is characterized by neurological symptoms that are inconsistent with or cannot be fully explained by medical or neurological conditions. These symptoms can manifest as sensory or motor dysfunctions, such as paralysis, weakness, or abnormal movements, but are not attributable to known medical issues. In diagnosing Conversion Disorder, clinicians pay particular attention to how the symptoms are tied to psychological factors, including identifiable stressors or emotional conflicts. This helps differentiate the disorder from other medical conditions and understands the underlying psychological aspects that may be contributing to the symptoms. While identifying a psychological stressor is an important element in understanding the disorder, the primary focus remains on the presence of these peculiar symptoms that have no clear medical basis. This highlights the complex interplay between psychological and physical health, which is central to the concept of Conversion Disorder. The emphasis is not merely on the life changes of the individual or the presence of broader psychological disorders, but rather on the specific and often dramatic symptoms that present in the absence of a physical cause.