What is a common symptom of conversion disorder?

Conversion disorder, also known as functional neurological symptom disorder, is characterized by unexplained physical symptoms that cannot be attributed to a neurological or medical condition. This disorder often presents with symptoms such as weakness, paralysis, loss of sensation, or other neurological signs that appear without a clear physical cause. The key aspect of conversion disorder is that the symptoms are genuine and cause significant distress or impairment in functioning, yet they arise in the absence of any identifiable medical explanation.

The focus on unexplained physical symptoms is what distinguishes conversion disorder from other psychological conditions. While it shares some similarities with other disorders, such as somatic symptom disorder or affective disorders, the hallmark feature remains the physical manifestations that cannot be explained by medical diagnoses. This understanding is critical for effective assessment and treatment, as individuals with conversion disorder often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both physical and psychological components of their condition.