Compensation Neurosis (Accident Neurosis): Definition, History, and Treatment
Introduction
Compensation Neurosis, also known as Accident Neurosis, is a psychological disorder caused by an injury that is compensated for by a secondary symptom or condition. This disorder is characterized by physical and psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, somatic complaints, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. This article will discuss the definition of compensation neurosis, its history, and treatments available for this disorder.
Definition
Compensation Neurosis, also known as Accident Neurosis, is a psychological disorder caused by an injury or trauma that is compensated for by a secondary symptom or condition. This secondary symptom may be a physical or psychological complaint that is not directly related to the primary injury. Symptoms of compensation neurosis may include anxiety, depression, fatigue, somatic complaints, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating.
History
The concept of compensation neurosis is believed to have originated in the late 19th century as a result of a growing interest in the effects of industrial accidents. At the time, it was believed that physical trauma resulting from industrial accidents could lead to psychological distress. Early studies of compensation neurosis focused on the psychological effects of industrial accidents, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These studies suggested that compensation neurosis was a common psychological disorder among workers who had suffered physical trauma due to industrial accidents.
Treatment
The primary treatment for compensation neurosis is psychotherapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a particularly effective treatment for this disorder, as it helps individuals identify and modify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. CBT can also help individuals learn coping skills to manage their symptoms and disrupt negative thought patterns. In addition, medications such as antidepressants and anxiolytics may be used to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Conclusion
Compensation Neurosis, or Accident Neurosis, is a psychological disorder caused by an injury or trauma that is compensated for by a secondary symptom or condition. This disorder is characterized by physical and psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, somatic complaints, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. The primary treatment for compensation neurosis is psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medications such as antidepressants and anxiolytics may also be used to reduce symptoms.
References
Cimino, A., & Cimino, S. (2017). Compensation neurosis: A review of the literature. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 73(10), 1615–1623. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2209
Ng, S.T., & Koo, M. (2014). Compensation Neurosis: A review of the literature. Clinical Psychologist, 18(3), 149–159.
Reich, J.W., & Foa, E.B. (2015). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for PTSD: An overview. In M.J. Friedman, T.M. Keane, & P.A. Resick (Eds.), Handbook of PTSD: Science and practice (2nd ed., pp. 53–75). New York, NY: Guilford Press.