Distorted Perceptions of Reality People with schizophrenia may have perceptions of reality that are strikingly different from the reality seen and shared by others around them. Living in a world distorted by hallucinations and delusions, individuals with schizophrenia may feel frightened, anxious and confused. In part because of the unusual realities they experience, people with schizophrenia may behave very differently at various times. Sometimes they may seem distant, detached or preoccupied and may even sit as rigidly as a stone, not moving for hours or uttering a sound. Hallucinations and Illusions Hallucinations and illusions are disturbances of perception that are common in people suffering from schizophrenia.
Hallucinations are perceptions that occur without connection to an appropriate source.
Voices may describe the patient s activities, carry on a conversation, warn of impending dangers, or even issue orders to the individual. Illusions, on the other hand, occur when a sensory stimulus is present but is incorrectly interpreted by the individual. Delusions Delusions are false personal beliefs that are not subject to reason or contradictory evidence and are not explained by a person s usual cultural concepts. Delusions may take on different themes. These patients may believe that they, or a member of the family or someone close to them, are the focus of this persecution.