Zachary Dunlap was playing tag football at a family reunion picnic. He sustained severe damage to his ankle and required several months of physical therapy and rehabilitation. His physical therapist reports that he has made tremendous progress and his mobility has returned to normal. However Zachary is extremely anxious about the condition of his ankle and complains of great pain if he has been on his feet for most of the day - and this is not unusual given his occupation as a mail carrier. He constantly worries about his mobility despite the reality that his orthopedic physician does not believe that Zachary's ankle trauma should continue to limit his abilities. Zachary is not sure his doctor is telling him the full story and he has an appointment scheduled with another physician. What disorder does Zachary's thoughts and behaviors suggest?
A)Illness anxiety disorder
B)Conversion disorder
C)Factitious disorder
D)Somatic symptom disorder

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Zachary's persistent anxiety and concern about his ankle, despite medical reassurance and improvement in mobility, suggests the possibility of somatic symptom disorder. This disorder involves excessive and persistent thoughts about physical symptoms or concerns, and can lead to significant distress and functional impairment.

Zachary Dunlap Was Playing Tag Football at a Family Reunion