Psychogenic pain is best characterized by which of the following definitions?

Psychogenic pain is primarily characterized by its emotional rather than physical origins. This type of pain arises not from direct injury or physical ailments but from psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or emotional trauma. Understanding psychogenic pain involves recognizing that while the pain experienced can be very real and intense, it does not stem from identifiable physical causes. This distinction is important in the context of treatment, as addressing the underlying emotional or psychological issues may be necessary to alleviate the pain.

In contrast, other definitions suggest a more physical basis for pain or focus on external sources, which do not accurately reflect the nature of psychogenic pain. Distilling the concept down to its essence—emotional underpinnings—highlights the complexity of pain perception and the need for a holistic approach in managing it.