Question

Archit works in an office where he feels that he is being spied on. He is sure that people deliberately assign him more work as they want him thrown out on grounds of incompetence. Archit also feels that people tamper with his computer and call him from multiple numbers to attack his personal space. What kind of delusion is Archit suffering from?

• A. Delusion of grandeur
• B. Delusion of reference
• C. Delusion of control
• D. Delusion of persecution

Hint:

To differentiate delusions, focus on the core theme: Grandeur = "I am great." Persecution = "They are out to get me." Reference = "It's all about me." Control = "I am not in control of myself."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Conceptual Understanding:
Delusions are characterized as false convictions maintained steadfastly despite unequivocal contradictory evidence. They are a defining symptom of psychotic disorders. Delusions manifest with varying thematic content.

Delusion of Grandeur: An unfounded conviction of possessing extraordinary abilities, wealth, or renown.
Delusion of Reference: The erroneous belief that inconsequential events or remarks carry profound personal significance (e.g., interpreting a news broadcast as a covert personal communication).
Delusion of Control: The false impression that one's thoughts, emotions, or actions are subject to external manipulation.
Delusion of Persecution: The conviction that one is the target of conspiracies, surveillance, threats, or intentional harm.
Step 2: Detailed Examination:
Archit's convictions are uniformly centered on the premise that individuals intend to inflict harm upon him. He asserts he is being "spied on," that others are deliberately seeking to have him "thrown out," and that they "tamper with his computer" as a means to "attack his personal space." This pattern aligns precisely with a persecutory delusion.
Step 3: Conclusive Determination:
The specific delusion experienced by Archit is identified as a Delusion of persecution.