Alexithymia and physical outcomes in psychosomatic subjects: a cross-sectional study

Backgrounds. Alexithymia is a relevant phenomenon, occurring transversally
to healthy subjects and individuals affected by several conditions. Its role is
considerable, according to current state of the art several conditions emerged
as influenced, maintained and worsened by alexithymic structures and figures.
The present study was aimed at highlighting the existing relations, the
differences and the directions assumed by alexithymic factors and health status
in patients affected by psychosomatic conditions. Methods. The sample
consisted of 150 participants, 42 males (28.0%) and 108 females (72.0%), aged
26 to 78 years old with a mean of 42.24 years old (SD = 12.39). Subjects were
previously assessed through DCPR-SI, in order to identify psychosomatic
issues. The study evaluated measures related to alexithymia (Tas-20) and
health status (SF-36), and considered demographic characteristics such as age,
gender, and education. Results and Conclusions. The analyses demonstrated a
number of significant relationships between alexithymia, psychological
outcomes, and physical outcomes, including psychosomatic disorders. In
addition, sex differences were found in gastrointestinal outcomes, as well as
outcomes related to energy/fatigue and physical functioning. The study of
alexithymia may provide a fruitful approach in understanding various issues
related to pathology and general health. Further studies are needed to expand
the understanding of alexithymia to other groups and health-related outcomes.