Somatoform Dissociation
Somatoform dissociation is dissociation experienced in the body — such as numbness, pain, motor weakness, or sensory changes — that is linked to psychological rather than purely medical causes.
Definition
Somatoform dissociation refers to bodily symptoms with a dissociative quality, often connected to stress or trauma. Examples include areas of numbness, difficulty moving, or altered sensation that cannot be fully explained medically. The SDQ-20 measures these symptoms; medical causes should also be assessed.
What it can feel like
- Areas of numbness without a medical cause.
- Temporary difficulty moving or speaking.
- Insensitivity to pain during distress.
- Changes in sensation linked to stress or trauma.
Related screening tests on LuriaLab
- Somatoform Dissosiyasyon Anketi (SDQ-20)
Related glossary terms
Sıkça sorulan sorular
Are somatoform dissociation symptoms "in my head"?
The symptoms are real and physically experienced, even when linked to psychological causes. Medical evaluation is important to rule out other conditions.
What does the SDQ-20 measure?
The SDQ-20 is a 20-item measure of bodily (somatoform) dissociative symptoms, often used in trauma-related contexts.
Sources
- Nijenhuis ERS, et al. Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire (SDQ-20)
- ISSTD — dissociation resources
Last reviewed: 2026-07-02. Screening tools on LuriaLab are for education only and do not provide a diagnosis.