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The Apprehension/Fear and Somatic Preoccupation/Somatisation Dimensions

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Book cover Dimensional Psychopathology

Abstract

In this chapter, we critically reviewed findings suggesting the existence of two psychopathological dimensions: apprehension/fear and somatic concern/somatisation. The complex interplay between environment, genetics, endocrine and immune systems, and brain circuitries underlying these two dimensions is discussed, with a specific focus on relevance in terms of trans-diagnostic expression. Furthermore, starting with the data presented in Chap. 2, we provide evidence of a clear expression of these two dimensions across traditional diagnostic boundaries, further highlighting the need for a dimensional approach to psychiatric syndromes. Finally, we describe some clinical cases that in our clinical experience might represent an important portrait of a real-word scenario in which these theoretical notions could be applied. Starting with these considerations, an overview of the potential implication for treatment is provided.

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Delle Chiaie, R., Minichino, A. (2018). The Apprehension/Fear and Somatic Preoccupation/Somatisation Dimensions. In: Biondi, M., Pasquini, M., Picardi, A. (eds) Dimensional Psychopathology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-78202-7_3

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