Abstract
Background and objectivesTo assess the relationship between false memories and schizotypal experiences in healthy volunteers. Previous research has examined a number of schizotypal dimensions and experiences and found a variety of results. Our aim was to determine the specificity of these associations by giving participants a schizotypy measure which tapped positive, negative and disorganised dimensions (O-LIFE) and another which focused on delusional ideation (PDI). MethodsA new memory task was used consisting of images of everyday items, separated into categories. At test participants were presented with pictures which had been seen in the study phase, related lures (additional items from the same categories but which were new) and new items which were not from these categories. ResultsPositive correlations were found between scores on the positive dimension of schizotypy/delusional ideation and proportion of false memories. Moreover, these participants also had a greater tendency to respond with the highest confidence old response, regardless of the status of the item. No significant correlations were found with the other dimensions of schizotypy. LimitationsThe confidence finding differs somewhat from previous research, which has found more confidence in memory errors and less confidence in correct responses in schizophrenia. It is unclear the reason(s) for this discrepancy. ConclusionsIncreased false memory is associated with the positive dimension of schizotypy and delusional ideation and not the disorganised or negative dimensions. Furthermore, our results suggest that those high in positive schizotypy/delusional ideation require less evidence before they are willing to call an item old.
Highlights
Many people think of memory as being like a collection of video clips that can be replayed when we need them, giving a fixed and robust narrative of the past
As can be seen there was a greater proportion of old responses to old items than to related lures [t(85) = 18.76, p < 0.001] or unrelated lures [t (85) = 34.74, p < 0.001], indicating participants' general ability to discriminate old from new items
The aim of the present study was to determine the specificity of the relationship between certain schizotypal experiences and false memories
Summary
Many people think of memory as being like a collection of video clips that can be replayed when we need them, giving a fixed and robust narrative of the past. Results: Positive correlations were found between scores on the positive dimension of schizotypy/delusional ideation and proportion of false memories. These participants had a greater tendency to respond with the highest confidence old response, regardless of the status of the item. Limitations: The confidence finding differs somewhat from previous research, which has found more confidence in memory errors and less confidence in correct responses in schizophrenia. It is unclear the reason(s) for this discrepancy. Conclusions: Increased false memory is associated with the positive dimension of schizotypy and delusional ideation and not the disorganised or negative dimensions. Our results suggest that those high in positive schizotypy/delusional ideation require less evidence before they are willing to call an item old
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
