Referential delusions involve believing that ordinary events carry a special meaning directed at oneself. A television presenter may seem to be speaking personally to the viewer, or a song, advertisement or stranger’s gesture may be…Continue Reading
Delusions can concern the body, relationships, identity or the control of thoughts. Somatic delusions involve fixed beliefs about bodily illness or alteration. Jealous delusions concern a partner’s supposed infidelity despite inadequate evidence. Erotomanic delusions involve…Continue Reading
Conviction is the strength with which a belief is held. Insight includes the ability to recognise an experience as potentially related to illness or to consider explanations other than the most immediate one. These qualities…Continue Reading
Persecutory delusions involve the conviction that someone intends to harm, monitor, deceive or unfairly target the person. The perceived threat may involve strangers, neighbours, organisations or people close to them. Ordinary events, such as a…Continue Reading
Grandiose delusions involve beliefs about exceptional identity, importance, power, ability or relationships. A person may believe they possess extraordinary knowledge, have a special mission or maintain a close connection with a famous individual. The belief…Continue Reading