Asymmetry of doubt in medical self-diagnosis: the ambiguity of "uncertain wellness".
In 2 studies Ss received a clear or an unclear diagnosis, indicating either disease or no disease. In Experiment 1, Ss responded to a hypothetical bacteria test. In Experiment 2, Ss performed 2 saliva tests purportedly measuring risk for pancreatic disorders. Responses to the unclear well diagnosis were unique in several ways. Ss thought the test more invalid, inferred a greater likelihood of illness from a 2nd identical result, saw the disorder as more pernicious, and held no self-protective beliefs about the test or the disease. Moreover, desire for treatment among these Ss was as great as among those receiving a clear diagnosis of illness. Possible mechanisms are discussed, as are potential applications to clinical issues and to the development and maintenance of hypochondriacal health concerns.
Cioffi
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Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Texas 77214-5341.
D000328:Adult; D003933:Diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006998:Hypochondriasis / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012307:Risk Factors; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology*; D012803:Sick Role