Experiences of Feeling Exceptional
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Experiences of Feeling Exceptional: Finding Meaning and Balance in Everyday Life - A Proof-of-Concept Multiple Baseline Single Case Experimental Design Series Testing the Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Clinical Benefits of Treating Harmful Grandiose Delusions
IRAS ID
344160
Contact name
Louise Isham
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Oxford Research Governance, Ethics, and Assurance
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 31 days
Research summary
Background:
Grandiose delusions – false beliefs about having special powers, mission, wealth, or identity – are experienced by one in three patients diagnosed with severe mental health problems. Grandiose delusions can carry a huge burden and cause significant harm to self and others.
Current talking therapies and medications do not work well enough for many patients experiencing harmful grandiose delusions. Therefore, we have developed a new understanding of why grandiose delusions persist for a person and are using this to develop the first talking therapy specifically for the treatment of harmful grandiose delusions. The therapy targets key drivers of grandiose delusions and harm-reduction strategies are also provided.
Aim:
In this study, we will conduct preliminary testing of the new therapy. The objectives are to:
1. Provide initial evidence concerning whether the therapy is helpful.
2. Assess the acceptability of the therapy for patients with grandiose delusions.
Methods:
The project has two key elements:
1. Initial clinical testing. 12 NHS patients with harmful grandiose delusions will receive the therapy. They will be assessed across an initial baseline phase (between 5-7 weeks) before therapy starts, across the course of therapy (16-weeks) and again 2 weeks after therapy finishes. It will be seen whether: patients take up and are satisfied with the sessions, the drivers of grandiose delusions are blocked, and the grandiose delusions themselves reduce.
2. In-depth interviews. We will invite all 12 participants to complete an in-depth interview to learn more about how the therapy is experienced. Any areas to improve the therapy will be identified.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/EE/0015
Date of REC Opinion
26 Feb 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion