Is somatization affected by self-construal? A cross-sectional study with 120 psychiatric outpatients in two regions of Turkey

Abstract

Background and Aims:

The significant role of cultural influences on self-construction is also reflected in how individuals experience and express psychological distress. Somatization, the display of mental issues through physical symptoms, is less common in cultures with an autonomous self-construal typical of Western societies. While Turkey is traditionally considered a relational-collectivist society, Western Turkey exhibits higher levels of autonomous self-construal due to Westernization and economic growth. Our study explored how self-construal affects somatization in Bursa (west) and Mardin (east). Clinicians will thus, take more care of the symptoms of mental distress in patients from different cultures.

Method:

One hundred twenty consecutive patients were selected from those who applied to psychiatry outpatient clinics in Bursa and Mardin. Sociodemographic data form, the Autonomic-Relational Self-Scale (ARSS), Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI-53), and Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR). were applied to patients who volunteered to participate in the study.

Results:

Results showed higher somatization in Mardin and more disease phobia in Bursa. In the autonomy and relatedness dimensions of the self, autonomy was significantly higher in the Bursa group.

Conclusion:

These results support the idea that a relational self-construal is linked to more somatization. A negative correlation between somatization and factors like interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, and autonomy suggests that an independent self-construal might protect against somatization. The study also emphasizes the role of cultural context in mental health.