Delusions

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Delusions are easier to characterise than to define. A deluded individual has a belief (or beliefs) that is held with a degree of certainty unwarranted by the evidence available to that person, that is strongly resistant to vigorous opposition from others, and that distresses or preoccupies the person or otherwise disrupts their everyday functioning. While some aspects of this characterisation (for example, the notion that delusions are beliefs) have been subject to philosophical debate, this entry will focus on issues of classification, aetiology and treatment.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Encyclopedia of the Mind
EditorsH Pashler, T Crane, M Kinsbourne, F Ferreira, R Zemel
PublisherSage
Pages231
Number of pages233
Publication statusPublished - 2013

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