Precipitating Factors in Dissociative Neurological SymptomDisorder: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder (DNSD), commonly known as Conversion Disorder, presents with unexplained neurological symptoms. This study investigates the precipitating factors contributing to DNSD in the Pakistani population. Objectives: To identify and analyze significant life stressors that lead to the development of DNSD in patients admitted to the Psychiatry ward at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months involving 100 patients diagnosed with DNSD according to ICD-11 criteria. Data were collected using structured interviews and the Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory to analyze precipitating factors. Results: The majority of patients were female (73%), primarily between 15 and 35 years old. The most common precipitating factors included family conflicts (41%), relationship issues (22%), and financial stress (17%). High levels of stress were noted in 86% of participants, indicating a direct correlation between stress and DNSD. Conclusion: The findings highlight the significant role of psychosocial stressors, particularly family dynamics, in the onset of DNSD. This study underscores the necessity for culturally sensitive interventions and comprehensive assessments to manage DNSD effectively in the Pakistani context. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and therapeutic strategies tailored to this population.

Keywords: Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder (DNSD), Conversion Disorder, Psychosocial stressors, Family conflicts, Cross-sectional study, Life stressors, Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory, Pakistan