Patient-Oriented Multifamily Group-Based Care for Somatization: Narratives From Treated Adolescents and Parents

Abstract

Objective:

Treatment mechanisms to alleviate adolescent somatization are unknown. While processes underlying potential efficacy have not been investigated, mental health destigmatization is likely key. Here, qualitative methods were used so adolescent patients and their parents could express their perceptions about processes important in improvement from conditions affected by somatization.

Method:

A total of 21 posttreatment interviews (10 adolescents aged 12–17; 11 parents) were completed following participation in the manualized mind–body together (MBT) multifamily group in a pediatric tertiary care setting. Demystifying the nature of the body’s physical response to stress and broaching emotional coregulation between adolescents and parents were core group topics. Semistructured interviews were used to explore participants’ experiences of treatment and improvement. Interviews were video/audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:

Four global processes essential to improvement were generated: (a) group belonging and normalization, (b) accepting the joint nature of physical and mental states, (c) emotional coregulation between parents and children, and (d) knowledge translation to school contexts. Responses suggested the first three themes built upon one another in succeeding order, but the final theme was missing from treatment.

Conclusion:

The multifamily MBT group for somatization may be a promising initial step for treatment. Its core processes may be operationalized and further improved. While quantitative evaluations of treatment mechanism are now warranted, providers may consider optimizing their services for adolescent somatization by integrating the four components expressed by families with lived experience.

Implications for Impact Statement

A somatization group treatment for teens and parents may help them engage in mental healthcare. According to teens and parents, group belonging sets the stage for treatment, allowing them to accept emotions and physical symptoms are connected, change the way they communicate emotionally, and identify the need to extend this knowledge to schools. Findings may guide clinicians through the steps patients require for wellness.