The authors present the proposed DSM-III classification of the
traditional hysterical disorders, i.e., disorders that suggest physical
illness but in which psychological factors are judged to be of importance.
The use of the DSM-III inclusion and exclusion criteria-- physical
mechanism explains the symptoms, symptoms are linked to psychological
factors, symptom initiation is under voluntary control, and there is an
obvious recognizable environmental goal--are discussed in the differential
diagnosis of somatoform disorder, factitious disorder, malingering,
psychological factors affecting physical condition, and undiagnosed
physical illness.Abstract Teaser