Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

Individuals with which disorder may show la belle indifference?

1. Conversion disorder

2. Interview disorder

3. Anxiety disorder

4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

The correct answer is: Conversion disorder

La belle indifference is a term used to describe a phenomenon often observed in patients with conversion disorder. It refers to the display of a seemingly inappropriate lack of concern or emotional response to symptoms that one would typically expect to provoke anxiety or distress, such as sudden paralysis or loss of sensation. Individuals with conversion disorder have a psychological conflict that manifests as physical symptoms, and their seemingly indifferent attitude towards these severe symptoms can be perplexing to healthcare providers. In contrast, the other disorders listed, like anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, typically involve significant distress or concern over symptoms and the associated impacts on the individual’s life. Interview disorder is not a widely recognized term in the field of psychology or psychiatry, making it less relevant in this context. Therefore, conversion disorder is correctly linked to la belle indifference due to the unique emotional responses observed in those afflicted with the disorder.