Question

........... is a sensory experience that seems real to the person having it, but occurs in the absence of any external perceptual stimulus.

• A. Delusion
• B. Illusion
• C. Hallucination
• D. Depression

Hint:

Remember the key difference: {Illusion} = Misinterpreting something that IS there. {Hallucination} = Perceiving something that is NOT there. {Delusion} = Believing something that is not true.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Conceptual Understanding:
The question seeks the term for a false sensory perception, differentiating it from other forms of reality distortion.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
(A) Delusion: A disorder of thought content; a false, unshakable belief contrary to evidence (e.g., identifying as a historical figure). It is not a sensory event.
(B) Illusion: A disorder of perception involving misinterpretation of a real external stimulus. Example: mistaking a rope for a snake in dim light. A stimulus is present.
(C) Hallucination: A disorder of perception occurring without any external stimulus. The sensory experience (e.g., auditory or visual) originates internally from the brain. This aligns precisely with the question's definition.
(D) Depression: A mood disorder marked by sadness, anhedonia, and related emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms.
Step 3: Conclusion:
A sensory experience lacking an external stimulus is classified as a hallucination.