Psychosomatic Concepts in Atopic Dermatitis—a Critique

Allergy Diagnosis in Atopic Eczema with the Atopy Patch Test

“…First, investigators were unable to agree on the emotional and personality features present in atopic dermatitis sufferers. Second, as Rostenberg (1959) points out, other investigators who attempted to replicate Alexander's (1950) specificity of conflict constellations failed to find supporting evidence. Third, these studies occurred at a time that the psychodynamic approach was coming under attack for its lack of an empirical basis by proponents of behaviourism.…”

“…These studies have found more consistent results. Due to the methodological limitations listed above, it is impossible to say whether any personality features are characteristic of atopic dermatitis, an itching disease, a skin disease, a cosmetic disfigurement, a chronic disorder, or a combination of these (Rostenberg, 1959).…”

“…Since most of the studies were conducted in search of a specific atopic dermatitis personality rather than similarities with other groups, the most appropriate group would be a chronic skin disorder. Unless this group is selected, it is impossible to say whether any observed features are characteristic of atopic dermatitis, a skin disease, an itching disease, a chronic disorders, a cosmetic disfigurement, or some combination of the above (Rostenberg, 1959).…”

Psychological and social factors of atopic dermatitis

“…Among the earliest concepts discussed in the AD literature were maternal overprotection and maternal rejection (18). Authors have claimed, for instance, that the AD child is rejected because parents dislike touching the child (22). Other family variables that have been described as related to AD included conflict in the family and inadequate disciplinary practices of the parents.…”

Psychological and social factors of atopic dermatitis

“…The psychosomatic approach to defining a specific AD personality profile has been extensively criticized (22). Studies have been methodologically inadequate, failing to use standard psychological instruments, lacking adequate controls, and failing to establish causal relationships.…”