Delusion-like experiences are related to negative perceptions of self and others in non-clinical individuals. Issue 3 (3rd July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zamperoni, Georgia; Neill, Erica; Rossell, Susan L.; Tan, Eric J.
• Is Part Of: Psychosis. Volume 14:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 203
• Page End: 214
• Publication Date: 2022-07-03
• Subjects: Delusions -- personality -- schemas -- locus of control -- schizotypy -- prodromal psychosis; Psychoses -- Periodicals; Psychotic Disorders -- therapy; Psychotic Disorders -- etiology; Psychoses; Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1080/17522439.2021.1942961
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1752-2447

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: Delusions are a core feature of psychosis and are thought to exist on a continuum from healthy individuals to clinical populations. This study examined the relationship between delusion-like experiences, using the Peters Delusional Inventory (PDI), and two aspects of personal worldview: core schemas (positive and negative views of the self and others) and locus of control (LOC). Methods: 258 healthy participants without a history of psychiatric illness completed an online survey assessing these constructs. Stepwise regression controlling for age and negative affect, revealed that negative self-schemas significantly predicted the presence of delusion–like experiences whilst negative schemas of others significantly predicted both the presence of delusion–like experiences and associated levels of distress and preoccupation. Results: Positive schemas did not relate to delusions as measured by the PDI. Hierarchical regression demonstrated that LOC did not significantly predict delusion–like experiences. Discussion: The findings highlight that negative schemas of others may be more critically related to delusional experiences than negative self-schemas. Replication in clinical samples is required, while some implications for future research and clinical interventions in prodromal psychosis are examined.