Psychosocial theorists propose that somatic symptom illnesses are an indirect expression of stress and anxiety through physical symptoms. Which is the primary defense mechanism used in somatoform disorders?

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Psychosocial theorists believe that people with somatic symptom illnesses keep stress, anxiety, or frustration inside rather than expressing them outwardly. This is called internalization. Clients express these internalized feelings and stress through physical symptoms (somatization). Both internalization and somatization are unconscious defense mechanisms. Identification is trying to ease distress by emulating others whom one admires. Repression is the unconscious exclusion of distressing situations from one's memory.

Psychosocial Theorists Propose That Somatic Symptom Illnesses Are an Indirect