Compensation neurosis rides again

Brain Inj. 1992 Sep-Oct;6(5):401-10. doi: 10.3109/02699059209008136.

Abstract

Compensation neurosis (CN), also known as accident neurosis, has generally not been considered to be a 'real' disorder. In 1961 it was seemingly laid to rest by Henry Miller, a distinguished neurologist, in a sharp article which appeared in the British Medical Journal. Miller's view of patients who presented psychological symptoms following accidents or traumas was suspicious. Compensated or not, his view seemed to be that they should have their legal process finished as quickly as possible and then they will miraculously convalescence. Miller's work, it appeared, was the coup de grâce for this ill-defined diagnosis. Today, however, compensation neurosis seems to ride again. After a prolonged silence in the psychiatric literature, new papers are emerging, strongly suggesting that this vanishing diagnosis be reconsidered. This new trend will be presented.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Brain Damage, Chronic / diagnosis*
  • Brain Damage, Chronic / psychology
  • Disability Evaluation*
  • Eligibility Determination / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Expert Testimony / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Head Injuries, Closed / diagnosis*
  • Head Injuries, Closed / psychology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Personnel / psychology*
  • Sick Role
  • Social Security / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / diagnosis*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology