What is a delusion?

A delusion is defined as a false belief that is firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. This condition is often associated with various psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia or delusional disorder, where the individual's perception of reality is significantly distorted. The belief persists regardless of logical reasoning or strong evidence disproving it. This distinguishes it from other mental states, such as temporary confusion, which does not indicate a fixed belief system.

Understanding delusions is critical in clinical practice as they can impact a patient’s behavior, decision-making processes, and overall functioning. Identifying and addressing delusions is a crucial component of psychological evaluation and treatment, as they can lead to significant distress or impairment in functioning for the individual.