A patient who subconsciously converts his or her anxiety into a bodily dysfunction is experiencing:

The scenario presented involves a patient who is experiencing anxiety that manifests as a bodily dysfunction, which aligns with the concept of conversion hysteria. This psychological condition involves the conversion of psychological distress—such as anxiety—into physical symptoms that cannot be explained by medical conditions. It is rooted in the notion that unresolved emotional conflicts can lead to physical manifestations, allowing the individual to express their emotional pain through physical symptoms rather than confronting the psychological issues directly.

Conversion hysteria was historically recognized in various psychological frameworks, and it emphasizes how psychological factors can influence physical health. This understanding can help clinicians approach treatment by focusing not only on the physical symptoms but also on the underlying emotional and psychological states contributing to the dysfunction. Recognizing the role of subconscious processes in manifesting symptoms can lead to more effective therapeutic interventions.