Secondary gain

secondary gain

n.

Interpersonal or social advantages gained indirectly from organic illness, such as an increase in attention from others.

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Secondary gain

The social, occupational, or interpersonal advantages that a patient derives from symptoms. A patient's being relieved of his or her share of household chores by other family members would be an example of secondary gain.

Mentioned in: Somatoform Disorders

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secondary gain Psychiatry The external gain derived from an illness or Sx thereof–eg, ↑ attention and service, sympathy, social interaction, money, disability benefits, release from unpleasant responsibility. Cf Primary gain.