Deconstructing delusions: Pathways from belief to forensic violence
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Deconstructing delusions: Pathways from belief to forensic violence
IRAS ID
353157
Contact name
Artemis Igoumenou
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
200131 , N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 8 months, 1 days
Research summary
Some people experience delusions, which are strongly held beliefs that are not shared by others and are not based on evidence. Delusions can occur in several mental health conditions, including psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia), delusional disorders, and rare conditions known as delusional misidentification syndromes. In these syndromes, a person may believe, for example, that someone close to them has been replaced by an impostor. These experiences can be very distressing and can affect how people understand and respond to the world around them.
Why is this research important?
Most people who experience delusions are not violent. However, in a small number of cases, certain delusional beliefs may lead to actions that could harm others. Understanding how this happens is important for improving risk assessment, care, and prevention in mental health services, particularly in forensic settings. This study aims to improve understanding of how delusional beliefs develop over time and how violent behaviour may emerge in some cases.What is being studied?
This is an observational study, meaning no treatments or interventions are being tested. The research will explore patterns of delusional thinking and behaviour using information from existing clinical records and, where appropriate, interviews with participants.Who can take part?
Adults aged 18 or over who are currently in, or have previously been in, a forensic psychiatric hospital and who have experienced delusions as part of a psychotic disorder, delusional disorder, or delusional misidentification syndrome and who have acted violently as a result of those delusions may be eligible.Where and how will the study take place?
The study will be conducted in NHS forensic psychiatric hospitals in England. It will involve reviewing existing records and, for some participants, taking part in an interview within the hospital. The study will not affect participants' care in any way.REC name
London - South East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/LO/0381
Date of REC Opinion
9 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion