Alzheimer’s Delirium and Dementia Q 22
Malou with schizophrenia tells Nurse Melinda, “My intestines are rotted from worms chewing on them.” This statement indicates a:
A. Jealous delusion
B. Somatic delusion
C. Delusion of grandeur
D. Delusion of persecution
Correct Answer: B. Somatic delusion
Somatic delusions focus on bodily functions or systems and commonly include delusion about foul odor emissions, insect manifestations, internal parasites, and misshapen parts. Of the delusional symptoms, somatic delusions-those that pertain to the body-are rather rare. Somatic delusions are defined as fixed false beliefs that one’s bodily function or appearance is grossly abnormal. They are a poorly understood psychiatric symptom and pose a significant clinical challenge to clinicians.
Option A: Delusional jealousy (also known as morbid jealousy) is one type of delusional disorder, and as the name implies people with jealous delusions are completely convinced that their spouses or romantic partners have been unfaithful. Delusional jealousy, by its very nature, is highly destructive: it can cause immense damage to treasured relationships and in some instances can lead to obsessive or even violent behavior.
Option C: A delusion of grandeur is the false belief in one’s own superiority, greatness, or intelligence. People experiencing delusions of grandeur do not just have high self-esteem; instead, they believe in their own greatness and importance even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Someone might, for example, believe they are destined to be the leader of the world, despite having no leadership experience and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Delusions of grandeur are characterized by their persistence. They are not just moments of fantasy or hopes for the future.
Option D: Persecutory delusions occur when someone believes others are out to harm them despite evidence to the contrary. It’s a type of paranoid thinking that can be part of several different mental illnesses. Whether people with this condition think coworkers are sabotaging their work or they believe the government is trying to kill them, persecutory delusions vary in severity. Some individuals with persecutory delusions believe they have to go to great lengths to stay safe—and consequently, they may struggle to function normally.