Psychosocial Correlates of Conversion Disorder Among Adolescents Seen at the Oupatient Youth Clinic at Kenyatta National Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: There is paucity of epidemiological data on Conversion Disorder (CD) among adolescents. However, this disorder is common among adolescents attending any medical health care clinics. It is mostly associated with psychosocial stressors and there are limited studies focusing on the psychosocial environment of adolescents presenting with CD. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze psychosocial factors associated with CD among adolescents attending youth clinic in KNH. Methodology: This was a retrospective study where data for the period March 2014 to March 2019 was collected using a researcher designed social demographic form and data abstraction form at KNH outpatient youth clinic. Data was analyzed using SPSS for windows version 23. We used frequency proportions, Chi square and Pearson correlation analysis. Findings: The study established that the prevalence rate of Conversion Disorder ranged from 1.39% - 6.94% in the study period 2014 to 2019. CD was predominant among females (64.6%), and in the age group16-19 years (52.4%). Psychosocial factors of concern were parental death (25.9%), communication problems in the family (23.8%), failure in exams/fear of failure (48.3%) and physical abuse (19%). Commonest presentation was pseudo-seizures (31.9%). Conclusion: Psychosocial factors were prevalent and correlated among adolescents presenting with Conversion Disorder particularly family, school and parental problems. Recommendations: Screening and interventions for conversion disorder should be done for adolescents with psychosocial concerns but presenting with physical symptoms.

Identification and management of conversion disorders should be well taught to other mental health workers to improve management. Psycho education for these disorders should be done for the patients which helps in their management and understanding of stress management