a set of scientific criteria that help to understand the nature of psychosomatic conditions, determine appropriate methods of diagnosis and treatment, and select effective prevention programs. This classification focuses on the relationship between psychological and emotional factors on the one hand, and body functions and organ systems on the other, taking into account individual differences in psychological and physiological responses.
1) Physiological criterion: this criterion is based on the definition of the organ system in which the psychosomatic effect is manifested.
– Cardiovascular system: psychogenic hypertension, psychogenic angina.
– Digestive system: irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcer as a result of psychological stress.
– Respiratory system: psychogenic asthma and stress-related breathing disorders.
– Skin: eczema, psoriasis.
– Musculoskeletal system: chronic headaches, back and neck pain as a result of psychological stress.
– Reproductive and hormonal system: menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction associated with psychological stress.
2) Psychological criterion: focuses on the nature of the psychological response to stress and environmental stimuli and classifies disorders according to the intensity of emotions and their impact on the body.
– Disorders that arise as a result of sudden shocks.
– Disorders associated with chronic stress or constant psychological pressure.
3) Time criterion (severity and chronicity): this criterion determines the persistence of symptoms and their impact on daily life.
– Acute disorders – appear suddenly and last for a short period after a certain stressful situation.
– Chronic disorders – develop gradually and persist over a long period of time and can become a recurring pattern or a stable personality characteristic.
4) Adaptive or functional criterion: based on a person’s psychological style of coping with stress.
– Disorders that result from ineffective coping techniques, such as repression, denial, or avoidance.
– Disorders directly caused by negative emotions such as anxiety, anger, sadness, or constant fear.
5) Environmental and social criteria – the influence of the social, family and professional environment on the occurrence of disorders. Stress at work, family conflicts, or traumatic life events increase the likelihood of developing psychosomatic symptoms.