Question

What type of delusion is the patient experiencing if they believe that other patients are constantly talking about them and that the reason for the monthly fire drills is because the hospital administration believes them to be an arsonist?

1) Persecutory delusion
2) Grandiose delusion
3) Erotomanic delusion
4) Referential delusion

Answer 1

The patient is experiencing a Persecutory delusion, believing that others are talking about them and being accused of potential arson. Persecutory delusions are common in certain psychiatric conditions and treatment generally includes medication and therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of delusion that the patient is experiencing is known as a Persecutory delusion. This is characterized by the belief that others are plotting against them or intending to harm them. In the scenario described, the individual believes that other patients are talking about them, which indicates a sense of being targeted by others, and that fire drills are conducted because the hospital believes they are an arsonist, which reflects a belief of being wrongly accused or persecuted.

Persecutory delusions are a common type of delusion in psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, severe depression, or bipolar disorder with psychotic features. They can contribute to significant distress and may lead to defensive behaviour. Treatment typically involves antipsychotic medication and psychotherapy to help the individual manage and challenge these delusional beliefs.