Beset by contradictions, somatoform and factitious disorders have an unusually long, rich and colourful historical and clinical tradition, yet some of them have received only scant empirical investigation. This annotated volume aims to clarify the issues surrounding these disorders, and offers practical guidance and recommendations, highlighting the pressing need for further research to improve patient care. It offers a broad synthesis of knowledge - and controversies - about somatoform and factitious disorders. Topics covered include: somatization disorder; hypochondriasis; body dysmorphic disorder; conversion disorder; and factitious disorders.
