Alexithymia and physical outcomes in psychosomatic subjects: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Backgrounds. Alexithymia is a relevant phenomenon, occurring transversally to healthy subjects and individuals affected by several conditions. Its role is considerable, according to current state of the art several conditions emerged as influenced, maintained and worsened by alexithymic structures and figures. The present study was aimed at highlighting the existing relations, the differences and the directions assumed by alexithymic factors and health status in patients affected by psychosomatic conditions. Methods. The sample consisted of 150 participants, 42 males (28.0%) and 108 females (72.0%), aged 26 to 78 years old with a mean of 42.24 years old (SD = 12.39). Subjects were previously assessed through DCPR-SI, in order to identify psychosomatic issues. The study evaluated measures related to alexithymia (Tas-20) and health status (SF-36), and considered demographic characteristics such as age, gender, and education. Results and Conclusions. The analyses demonstrated a number of significant relationships between alexithymia, psychological outcomes, and physical outcomes, including psychosomatic disorders. In addition, sex differences were found in gastrointestinal outcomes, as well as outcomes related to energy/fatigue and physical functioning. The study of alexithymia may provide a fruitful approach in understanding various issues related to pathology and general health. Further studies are needed to expand the understanding of alexithymia to other groups and health-related outcomes.