Psychology In Seattle Podcast Conversion Disorder (2016 Rerun)
Aug 12, 2025
Dive into the perplexing world of conversion disorder, where emotional turmoil translates into physical symptoms like paralysis. Discover its historical roots in psychoanalysis and how cultural influences shape our understanding. The discussion also reveals the intricate mind-body connection, underscoring the importance of mental health. Personal anecdotes further illuminate the challenges faced by those living with this condition, making for an engaging exploration of psychological complexities.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Patient With Sudden Functional Paralysis
- A woman presented with sudden paralysis below the waist and medical workups found no physical cause.
- Ryan reports that antidepressants and therapy coincided with her regaining the ability to walk.
Conversion Disorder Is Real And Unconscious
- Kirk Honda explains conversion disorder as psychological stress producing real physical symptoms, not voluntary faking.
- He stresses the unconscious generates those symptoms and patients lack conscious control over them.
Culture Shapes Symptom Presentation
- Kirk highlights that cultural context strongly influences how conversion symptoms appear across societies.
- He notes prevalence and symptom types shift over time as cultures offer different nonverbal templates for distress.