Psychosocial and Socio-demographic Correlates of Patients Presenting with Psychogenic Non-epileptic Seizures

To study the psychosocial and socio-demographic correlates in patients with conversion disorder presenting with non-epileptic seizures and discuss its interventional implication. This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, Bangalore, India from September 2008 to February 2009. 151 consecutive patients with conversion disorder satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. They were interviewed using semi-structured socio-demographic profile proforma, Holmes and Rahe stress scale for the exploration of psycho-social stressors. The data were entered on MS excel, analyzed by SPSS-version 16.0. The psychosocial stressors were clearly identified in all patients. Almost ninety five (94.70%, n=143) out of the total 151 subjects had a history of stressors, while in the rest 4.95% no stressors could be established. The commonest stressors were Troubles with in-laws (26.49%), Death of close family member (11.92%) and Increase in argument with significant others (10.59 %). Significantly higher number of the patients presented with the stressor of troubles with in-laws, when assessed on the Holmes and Rahe Social Readjustment Rating Scale. Detection of exact nature of correlates has immense potential for therapeutic as well as preventive field.