Delusion Across Cultures

Abstract

The delusions of 200 patients attending a general hospital psychiatric clinic in India were studied; the frequencies of the various types were then compared with results reported from other countries. Delusions of bodily control and of poisoning of food occurred more frequently in the present sample. Grandiose delusions were more commonly seen in the first-born, while in the last-born, delusions of persecution and of reference were more frequent. Females were more likely to develop delusions of infidelity. Possible causes of the relationship between types of delusions and socio-demographic factors are discussed.