Somatik Belirti Bozukluğunun Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi İle Tedavisi Üzerine Bir Derleme

Somatic symptom disorder is defined as a psychiatric condition characterized by physical complaints that cannot be fully explained by an underlying organic cause, where psychological factors play a prominent role. This disorder significantly impairs individuals’ quality of life and often leads to excessive utilization of healthcare services. Historical changes in DSM classifications demonstrate how the diagnostic criteria for the disorder have evolved over time. DSM-5 approaches somatic symptom disorder with a holistic perspective, emphasizing the central importance of psychological distress in diagnosis. This review addresses the diagnosis, epidemiology, etiology, and theoretical explanations of somatic symptom disorder. Theoretical approaches such as the psychoanalytic theory, behavioral theory, and object relations theory contribute significantly to the understanding of the disorder’s developmental and psychodynamic aspects. In addition, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) stands out as an effective intervention in the treatment of somatic symptom disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to reduce symptoms by restructuring individuals’ dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors. Studies in the literature have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy has significant effects in reducing symptom severity and improving quality of life. In this context, structured cognitive behavioral therapy intervention protocols strengthen the collaboration between patient and therapist and support the achievement of long-term positive outcomes. This review aims to provide a guiding resource for both clinicians and researchers by compiling up-to-date knowledge in the literature. Keywords: Somatic symptom disorder, theoretical approaches, DSM-5, cognitive behavioral therapy.