Impact of somatic disorders on the emotional and social development of children: a narrative literature review

*Correspondence: [e-mail].

Abstract

Background: Somatic disorders in children are conditions in which a child presents physical symptoms or complaints that are not fully explained by any underlying medical condition. These symptoms may include pain, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and various other bodily sensations. These disorders can be burdensome and can interfere with daily functioning and also the child's quality of life. Some examples of somatic disorders in childhood include conversion disorder, functional abdominal pain, and somatic symptom disorder. Somatization is present when psychological or emotional distress manifests in the form of physical symptoms that otherwise have no medical explanation. Treatment usually involves a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition.

Objective: To analyze the different types of somatic disorders that can affect the emotional and social development of children and how they may manifest.

Methods: A literature search was conducted to gather articles on the proposed topic. Articles were consulted in the PubMed, SciELO, and Lilacs databases. The search was performed by crossing the following descriptors: "somatics," "disorders," "children," "emotional," and "development." Articles written in English, Portuguese, and Spanish published in the last 10 years were used. Books that address the topic and could contribute to the construction of this review were also used.

Results: There are many studies that show that children who suffer from somatic disorders, such as functional abdominal pain, migraines, asthma, and allergies, may present significant emotional and social problems. For example, a study published in the "Journal of Pediatrics" in 2020 indicates that the prevalence of anxiety was 14.4% among children with chronic illnesses, compared to 5.7% among healthy children."

Conclusion: Somatic disorders have a significant impact on the emotional and social development of children. Children with somatic disorders are at higher risk of emotional problems such as anxiety and depression, as well as difficulties with socialization and low self-esteem. It is important for parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to be aware of these risks and work together to provide a supportive environment for children with somatic disorders.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
12. Mai 2025