Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Ataques de nervios (ADN) is a culture‐bound syndrome whose name translates literally as attack of the nerves. The most common symptoms of ADN include uncontrollable shouting, attacks of crying, trembling, and heat in the chest that rises into the head. ADN is common in Hispanic countries, with a lifetime prevalence among adults in Puerto Rico estimated to range from 16% to 23% and an even higher prevalence in clinical settings (roughly 70%). Between 9% and 26% of Island Puerto Rican children in community and clinical settings, respectively, are also estimated to have ADN. ADN is often comorbid with other psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and depressive disorders, and with somatic illness.

Original publication

DOI

10.1002/9781118625392.wbecp465

Type

Chapter

Book title

The Encyclopedia of Clinical Psychology

Publisher

John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Publication Date

23/01/2015

Volume

5

Pages

211 - 214