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Dysponesis: A neurophysiology factor in functional disorders
Author(s) -
Whatmore George B.,
Kohli Daniel R.
Publication year - 1968
Publication title -
behavioral science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.371
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1099-1743
pISSN - 0005-7940
DOI - 10.1002/bs.3830130203
Subject(s) - covert , neurophysiology , neuroscience , organism , psychology , nervous system , function (biology) , retraining , computer science , cognitive science , cognitive psychology , medicine , biology , paleontology , philosophy , linguistics , evolutionary biology , international trade , business
Abstract This paper discusses a physiopathologic state that is a hidden etiologic factor in a number of common clinical syndromes, and can give rise to a variety of functional disturbances within the organism. It is basically a reversible physiopathologic state composed of errors in energy expenditure that interfere with nervous system function and thus with control of organ function. Its detrimental influence is exerted by means of excitatory and inhibitory patterns of signal input at widespread points within the complex networks of the nervous system, resulting in reduction in the organism's productivity and disturbance of its emotional reactivity, ideation, and central regulation of various organs of the body. Most of this energy expenditure, covert in nature, goes unnoticed by both the person expending it and those who observe him. Diagnosis is based upon history, physical examination, and laboratory and psychological tests. Electromyometric studies are a necessary part of each patient workup whenever dysponesis is suspected. Treatment is a form of neurophysiologic engineering wherein basic principles of neurophysiology are used to carry on a retraining within the nervous system. Specific instances to which the patient overreacts are identified so that he can be “desensitized” to them through application of the principles of effort management. The patient is trained to observe at least some of the covert efforts that he makes unknowingly. Electromyometry, electromyophony, electromyoscopy, and other procedures are used for teaching purposes to delineate and objectify these efforts and bring them into the realm of observable phenomena, and much electronically monitored instruction and practice are necessary. The patient is then trained to take these energy expenditures into account with a minimum of fuss and attention as he goes about his daily activities. The quality of therapeutic result is directly proportional to the proficiency attained by the patient.

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