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Abstract
Background: A number of different systems of classification of delusional content exist. The basis for these systems is unclear.
Aims: The objective of this study was to investigate the manifest themes of delusions.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with twenty-five participants. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was used to generate a typology of themes. A second type of analysis used a data-display matrix of participants and themes. The latter matrix displayed the pattern of themes for each individual. A range of verification methods was used.
Results: A typology was constructed of 34 themes that fell into 6 general topic “domains” namely, negative self, negative interaction, special self, identity and relationships, specific mental experience, and entities. The majority of themes related to aspects of the self and social relationships. Each individual had a unique selection of themes that tended to cohere as a whole. We also found, as Freeman and Garety (2000) suggested, that some conventional definitions of content are not adequate.
Conclusions: The conventional systems for classifying delusions are distorting since they imply that individuals fit into distinct groups, for example, “the grandiose”. Our analysis suggests individuals tend to have a complex set of interconnected themes drawing uniquely from several possible domains.
Declaration of interest: No financial support was given for this study. All authors are employed by the relevant government health service listed above.