Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is described as a group of psychotic disorders in which personal, social and occupational functioning is deteriorated as a result of disturbed thought processes, strange perceptions, unusual emotional states and motor abnormalities. It is a debilitating disorder with tremendous social and psychological costs both to the patients, as well as to their families and society. The symptoms of schizophrenia can be grouped into three categories: positive symptoms, negative symptoms and psychomotor symptoms.
Nancy believes that her feelings, thoughts and actions are being controlled by the aliens. Identify the delusion Nancy is suffering from:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Delusion of Control
A delusion is a false belief firmly held on inadequate grounds, and it is a positive symptom of schizophrenia.
Option (1) Delusion of Grandeur — Incorrect. Here people believe themselves to be specially empowered persons, such as the next President of India or an incarnation of God. Nancy feels powerless, controlled from outside.
Option (2) Delusion of Control — Correct. In delusions of control, people believe that their feelings, thoughts and actions are controlled by others. Nancy believes aliens are controlling hers.
Option (3) Delusion of Persecution — Incorrect. Here people believe they are being plotted against, spied on, threatened or deliberately victimised. Nancy does not say she is being harmed, only controlled.
Option (4) Delusion of Reference — Incorrect. Here people attach special and personal meaning to the actions of others or to objects and events, which is not Nancy’s belief.
Note 1: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 31-05-2026 (Slot 1).
Note 2: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 22-06-2023 (Slot 3).
NCERT: Psychology — Chapter 4: Psychological Disorders, Symptoms of Schizophrenia (2025-26)
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