Somatoform Disorder in British South Asians: a qualitative study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Somatoform Disorder in British South Asians - what are the patient’s views?
IRAS ID
123389
Contact name
Nasim Chaudhry
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Research summary
“Somatoform“ or “functional“ syndromes presenting with physical symptoms, not explained by well-recognized medical illness. Studies have shown that South Asians have higher rates of consultations for physical complaints than their white counterparts, probably reflecting a somatic expression of emotional distress. However there have been very few studies investigating somatisation in this population. In this qualitative study we aim to use in depth interviews to understand the experience of somatoform disorder in British South Asians as well as their views on possible explanations and their understanding of treatments, especially their ideas about psychosocial treatments. As far as we are aware this is the first qualitative study exploring patients’ views on the diagnosis and management of the condition. We aim to use the findings of our study to inform the development of a culturally adapted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for somatisation in British South Asians.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/NW/0529
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion