Somatization was historically referred to by what term?

Somatization refers to the manifestation of psychological distress through physical symptoms. Historically, this phenomenon was largely classified under the term "hysteria." This term was predominantly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly to describe a range of psychological symptoms that appeared to have no apparent physical cause but were believed to originate from emotional or psychological issues.

Hysteria often encompassed a wide variety of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and various bodily complaints that lacked a clear medical explanation. The understanding of hysteria has evolved, leading to more precise diagnostic categories today, but it remains an important historical reference point to understand how psychological conditions were viewed and diagnosed in the past.

The other terms listed have distinct definitions that do not directly correlate with the historical context of somatization. Panic disorder pertains specifically to episodes of intense fear and physical symptoms of panic, while neurosis typically refers to a range of mental health disorders that might involve anxiety but are not specifically linked to the physical expression of psychological distress. Conversion disorder, although related to physical symptoms stemming from psychological conflicts, is a more contemporary term that evolved from the ideas surrounding hysteria and focuses on specific types of conversion symptoms.