A woman with abdominal pain and numerous medication allergies is likely experiencing which condition?

The correct answer highlights the potential for factitious disorder. In this scenario, the woman with abdominal pain and a history of numerous medication allergies may be exhibiting behavior consistent with this condition. Factitious disorder involves the intentional production or feigning of physical or psychological symptoms, driven by a desire to assume the sick role. This can often lead individuals to present with complex medical issues, including unexplained abdominal pain, due to their underlying psychological need.

Individuals with factitious disorder may go to great lengths to create or exacerbate symptoms, which is often reflected in their extensive medical histories and multiple medication allergies. This behavior is distinct from malingering, where the motivation is typically external, such as avoiding work or gaining financial compensation. In the case of conversion disorder and borderline personality disorder, the symptoms usually arise from underlying psychological issues but do not generally involve the intentional fabrication of symptoms for the sake of deceit.

Understanding factitious disorder is essential, as it requires a nuanced approach to diagnosis and treatment, focusing on managing both the psychological factors at play and the physical symptoms presented.