What does conversion disorder primarily involve?

Conversion disorder primarily involves physical malfunctioning that suggests neurological impairment without an identifiable physical cause. This condition is characterized by the presence of symptoms that affect voluntary motor or sensory functions; these symptoms can resemble those found in neurological disorders, but they are not attributable to any medical condition. For instance, a person might experience paralysis or loss of sensation in a limb, but medical evaluations reveal no neurological damage.

The symptoms of conversion disorder often arise following psychological stressors, but the individuals who experience this disorder are not intentionally producing or faking their symptoms. This distinguishes conversion disorder from factitious disorders or malingering, where there is a deliberate effort to create or exaggerate symptoms for personal gain or attention. Understanding this distinction is crucial in the context of diagnosing and treating conversion disorder, as the focus remains on addressing the psychological factors underlying the physical manifestations.