Do somatic symptom distress and attribution predict symptoms associated with environmental factors?

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the development and predictors of symptoms associated with environmental factors, which are broadly defined and include reactions to chemical substances, indoor environments, sounds, and electromagnetic fields.

Objective

Little is known about how symptoms associated with environmental factors (SAEFs) develop and the role of attribution in these processes. This study addresses the gap by examining both cross-sectional and longitudinal data over a period of three years.

Methods

• Data was sourced from the Västerbotten Environmental Health Study involving 2336 participants.
• Participants were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire Somatic Symptom Scale and other specific scales measuring environmental symptoms and their attributions.

Findings

Significant associations were found in cross-sectional analysis between somatic symptom distress, attribution, and all four studied SAEFs. Longitudinally, somatic symptom distress and attribution significantly predicted the development of symptoms related to sound and chemicals. However, only attribution was a predictor for electromagnetic field-related symptoms, and neither variable significantly predicted building-related symptoms.

Conclusion

Attribution appears to play a crucial role in the emergence and persistence of many SAEFs, highlighting the importance of psychological factors in understanding and managing environmental sensitivities.