Abstract
Background: Problems with the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia have led for a call to change strategy and focus upon individual psychotic experiences. In recent years, research on delusions has led the way.
Aims: In 1999 we reviewed almost forty studies on delusions, and our aim was to update this survey.
Method: Systematic literature searches of reasoning and affective processes related to delusions.
Results: Over 200 studies were identified. The presence of ‘jumping to conclusions’ in individuals with delusions has been substantiated, the theory of mind account has not stood up to subsequent testing, and there is a promising new focus upon the ways that affective processes contribute to delusional experience.
Conclusions: We highlight how theoretical work rendering delusions understandable can be translated into treatments, and conclude that future clinical trials should focus on individual psychotic experiences as outcomes.
Aims: In 1999 we reviewed almost forty studies on delusions, and our aim was to update this survey.
Method: Systematic literature searches of reasoning and affective processes related to delusions.
Results: Over 200 studies were identified. The presence of ‘jumping to conclusions’ in individuals with delusions has been substantiated, the theory of mind account has not stood up to subsequent testing, and there is a promising new focus upon the ways that affective processes contribute to delusional experience.
Conclusions: We highlight how theoretical work rendering delusions understandable can be translated into treatments, and conclude that future clinical trials should focus on individual psychotic experiences as outcomes.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 327-333 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | British Journal of Psychiatry |
| Volume | 203 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Nov 2013 |
Keywords
- Schizophrenia
- Psychosis
- delusions