Which term refers to fixed false beliefs about reality that may accompany psychotic disorders?

Which term refers to fixed false beliefs about reality that may accompany psychotic disorders?

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

Answer: (A)

Delusions are fixed, false beliefs about reality that persist despite clear evidence to the contrary and despite others’ inability to share the belief. They are conceived as beliefs, not sensory experiences, and often resist change even when confronted with contradictory information. This distinguishes them from hallucinations (perceptual experiences without external stimuli), illusons (misperceptions of real stimuli), and obsessions (intrusive, distressing thoughts that are recognized as coming from one’s own mind). Because the question asks for the term describing enduring false beliefs about reality seen in psychotic disorders, delusion is the best fit.

Delusions are fixed, false beliefs about reality that persist despite clear evidence to the contrary and despite others’ inability to share the belief. They are conceived as beliefs, not sensory experiences, and often resist change even when confronted with contradictory information. This distinguishes them from hallucinations (perceptual experiences without external stimuli), illusons (misperceptions of real stimuli), and obsessions (intrusive, distressing thoughts that are recognized as coming from one’s own mind). Because the question asks for the term describing enduring false beliefs about reality seen in psychotic disorders, delusion is the best fit.