Psychological theories of delusional thinking: in search of integration.
Psychological theories approach the problem of delusional thinking in psychosis from a range of perspectives. Recent attention has focused on the attributional style of sufferers; research points towards the relevance of cognitive deficits; the potential value of cognitive therapy in reducing delusional thinking is being explored; and psychodynamic theories argue for the role of defence mechanisms. Aspects of these approaches are reviewed and ideas for integration discussed within the vulnerability-stress model of psychosis. Implications for therapy are noted.
Hingley
S M
SM
Division of Psychiatry, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Royal Victoria Infirmary, UK.
D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D003702:Delusions / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011613:Psychotherapy; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology; D013850:Thinking