Delusional disorder

Delusional disorder

Delusional disorder is a psychological disorder that I have found to be extremely intriguing. This condition is characterized by enduring delusions and unfounded beliefs that are not commonly held within one’s cultural or subcultural context. Delusions encompass a wide range of subjects, frequently involving themes of persecution, romantic infatuation with a notable figure, or possessing extraordinary capabilities (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5-TR 2022; Spielman et al., 2020).

Here are five prominent symptoms and/or features of delusional disorder; The first symptom is delusions. The hallmark characteristic of delusional disorder is the manifestation of delusions. Delusions are erroneous convictions that lack consensus within an individual’s cultural or subcultural milieu (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5-TR 2022; Spielman et al., 2020). Hallucinations are frequently characterized by their peculiar and improbable nature, causing significant distress to those who encounter them. The second symptom is perseveration. Individuals afflicted with the delusional disorder frequently tend to fixate upon their delusions persistently. This signifies their persistent adherence to delusional beliefs, despite the absence of supporting evidence. Individuals may exhibit anger or defensiveness when their delusions are confronted.

Subsequently, the absence of other psychotic symptoms is another feature of the disorder. Delusional disorder is differentiated from other psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, by the lack of accompanying symptoms like hallucinations or disorganized speech (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5-TR 2022; Spielman et al., 2020). To follow this, good premorbid functioning is also another symptom associated with the condition. Individuals afflicted with delusional disorder frequently exhibit a commendable level of premorbid functioning. This implies that they exhibited typical functionality in their daily lives prior to the manifestation of the disorder. Lastly, delusional disorder mostly onsets in late adulthood. Delusional disorder commonly emerges during the later stages of adulthood, specifically within the age range of 40 to 60. Nevertheless, it may also manifest during early adulthood or later life stages.

Delusional disorder, a grave psychiatric condition, can be effectively managed by implementing pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches. Through appropriate therapeutic interventions, individuals diagnosed with delusional disorder can achieve a state of functional normalcy in their lives.

References

Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-5-TR. (2022). American Psychiatric Association Publishing.

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology 2e. Openstax.org. https://openstax.org/details/books/psychology-

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Make sure that you have read and studied the numerous Psychological Disorders noted in this chapter. Select one that you have found to be the most interesting.

Delusional disorder

Then, write an essay describing at least 5 prominent symptoms and or features of this disorder. You must include textbook data
regarding this disorder in your response. Make sure to cite this material appropriately.