Recurrent abdominal pain: gaining control of the symptom
H. G. Berger, P. J. Honig and R. Liebman
The treatment of recurrent abdominal pain without organic cause requires
that the families involved change their focus from organic to emotional
issues. This is done during a family conference with the pediatrician, in
which a positive approach to the problem is outlined. Following such a plan
avoids the pitfalls of continuing an inappropriate and organically oriented
response to the family's needs and also avoids threatening the family with
emotionally charged personal needs too soon. When the transition period is
successfully negotiated, the child's symptoms often are alleviated without
further psychological intervention. In cases where further psychiatric
intervention is indicated, a foundation has been laid for successful
treatment. Nineteen patients have been successfully treated either by the
pediatrician alone or have successfully begun psychotherapy, thus
preventing unnecessary medical tests and further "doctor shopping", which
characteristically accompanies such cases.
