Penny banged her knee into a table, causing some bruising and minor swelling. She rechecks her knee constantly, looking for any changes. She has shown the bruise to all of her friends, asking whether they think it will form a clot that breaks free and travels to her heart. Everyone tells her it is nothing, but she is convinced it is a significant problem. Penny is exhibiting signs of:
A) conversion disorder.
B) somatization disorder.
C) illness anxiety disorder.
D) pain disorder associated with psychological factors.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Penny's behavior is indicative of illness anxiety disorder, previously known as hypochondriasis. This condition is characterized by excessive worry about having a serious illness despite having minor or no symptoms, and reassurance from others does not ease the concern. Penny's fixation on her bruise and fear of it causing a serious health issue, despite reassurance, aligns with this disorder.

Penny Banged Her Knee into a Table, Causing Some Bruising