What type of disorder is characterized by a physical ailment with no organic cause?

A somatoform disorder is characterized by the presence of physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition or other physical cause. Individuals with somatoform disorders often experience genuine distress and impairment due to these symptoms, which may include pain, gastrointestinal issues, or neurological problems. These individuals might repeatedly seek medical attention, undergoing various tests and examinations that yield no conclusive organic findings, hence the term "no organic cause."

This type of disorder highlights the complex interplay between psychological and physical health, emphasizing that psychological factors can manifest as physical symptoms. The distinction is crucial because it guides appropriate treatment approaches, which may focus on addressing the underlying psychological issues rather than solely treating physical symptoms.

The other options represent different categories of mental health disorders. Depressive disorders primarily involve mood disturbances, adjustment disorders relate to difficulties in coping with life changes, and psychotic disorders are marked by impairments in reality perception, such as delusions or hallucinations. Each of these disorders has distinct characteristics and causes that do not align with the definition of a somatoform disorder.