A patient claims that they are being watched by the government and that their life is at risk. This is an example of which type of delusion?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

AIIMS NORCET 7 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2024

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Delusion of persecution

Rationale:

A delusion is a false belief held with strong conviction despite superior evidence to the contrary. Delusions can be a symptom of various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and delusional disorder.
A delusion of persecution involves the false belief that one is being harassed, mistreated, or targeted by others. In this case, the patient believes that the government is watching them and that their life is at risk. This is a classic example of a delusion of persecution, where the individual feels threatened and believes they are being conspired against.

Explanation of Other Options:

Delusion of reference

Rationale: A delusion of reference involves the belief that common elements of the environment are directly related to oneself. For instance, individuals might believe that newspaper articles, television shows, or comments made by others are specifically about them. This differs from delusions of persecution as it does not necessarily involve a belief in being targeted or harmed.

Delusion of grandeur

Rationale: A delusion of grandeur is characterized by an exaggerated sense of one's importance, power, knowledge, or identity. Individuals with this type of delusion might believe they have special powers, are famous, or have a unique destiny. This type of delusion involves a positive self-concept rather than the fear and suspicion seen in delusions of persecution.

Delusion of control

Rationale: A delusion of control involves the belief that one's thoughts, feelings, or behaviors are being controlled or influenced by external forces. Individuals may believe that their actions are being directed by an outside source, such as aliens or other people. This differs from delusions of persecution, which involve a belief in being targeted rather than controlled.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, the delusion of persecution is the correct answer as it best describes the patient's belief that they are being watched by the government and that their life is at risk. This type of delusion is characterized by feelings of threat and conspiracy against the individual.