An Exploration of the Links between Trauma and Delusional Ideation in Secure Services

Abstract

Relationships between symptoms and delusional ideation were explored in a forensic sample. A between-subjects design compared low and high scoring patients on measures of delusional ideation and paranoia. A within-subjects design examined associations between trauma-related cognitions, delusional ideation and paranoia. Thirty-four participants were recruited from a number of secure units. Participants' trauma was identified using a self-report analogue scale. Self-report measures of symptoms, trauma-related beliefs, delusions and paranoia were completed. Thirteen patients scored above the cut-off on the measure, indicating a high rate of symptoms. The most frequently cited worst traumas were committing an offence and the experience of psychosis. Correlational analyses revealed positive associations between traumatization and intensity of delusional ideation and paranoia. Trauma-related negative cognitions about the self were positively associated with level of delusional ideation, associated distress, and preoccupation. Negative cognitions about the world were associated with paranoia. Findings provide some evidence for associations between traumatization and delusional ideation and paranoia in this population. Future research should aim to replicate and extend the study, using a larger sample size and diagnostic measures of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).