What condition is characterized by patients feeling indifferent to loss of physical function after experiencing trauma?

The condition characterized by patients feeling indifferent to the loss of physical function after experiencing trauma is correctly identified as conversion disorder. This disorder, also known as functional neurological symptom disorder, involves a conversion of psychological stress into physical symptoms. Patients may present with neurological symptoms (such as paralysis, tremors, or non-epileptic seizures) that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition. A key feature of conversion disorder is the patient’s apparent lack of concern or indifference regarding these symptoms, which may arise following trauma or stress.

In contrast, somatic symptom disorder involves a preoccupation with physical symptoms and associated distress, which is markedly different from the indifference seen in conversion disorder. Malingering involves intentionally feigning illness for personal gain, typically motivated by external incentives, such as avoiding work or obtaining financial compensation. Factitious disorder is characterized by intentionally producing or feigning symptoms to assume the sick role, driven by a desire for attention and sympathy rather than for external gain. Thus, the key aspect of indifference in response to significant loss distinguishes conversion disorder as the correct answer.