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Article
Fibromyalgia: A Feminist Biopsychosocial Perspective
Women and Therapy
  • Mary T. White, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Jeanne P. Lemkau, Wright State University
  • Mark E. Clasen, Wright State University - Main Campus
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2001
Abstract

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome predominantly experienced by women and characterized by pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and multiple tender points at distinct locations on the body. Because of its prevalence and the common comorbidity of FM with depression and other conditions that prompt sufferers to seek psychological care, it is incumbent upon psychologists to be familiar with the syndrome, competent to provide assistance to afflicted individuals, and aware of the impact of gender politics on fibromyalgia sufferers. We present an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia, a brief summary of etiological possibilities, and a discussion of the experience of illness among affected individuals. We conclude by exploring the social construction of the syndrome from a feminist perspective.

DOI
10.1300/J015v23n01_04
Citation Information
Mary T. White, Jeanne P. Lemkau and Mark E. Clasen. "Fibromyalgia: A Feminist Biopsychosocial Perspective" Women and Therapy Vol. 23 Iss. 1 (2001) p. 45 - 58 ISSN: 0270-3149
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/mary_white/30/