Understanding and Managing Adolescents with Conversion and Functional Disorders

A functional disorder is a constellation of bothersome physical symptoms that compromise regular function but for which there is no identifiable organic or psychiatric pathology. Functional disorders can present with various symptoms. Common forms of functional disorders include functional neurologic symptom disorder (also referred to as “conversion disorder”), functional gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain syndromes, and chronic fatigue. One-third to one-half of outpatient consultations in many practices are due to functional disorders. Functional disorders must be distinguished from structural and psychiatric disorders but should not be considered diagnoses of exclusion. Recovery is facilitated by good relationships between patients and practitioners, with good explanations of the pathophysiology of functional disorders and effective encouragement and education of patients.