Auditory hallucinations: a review of assessment tools

Abstract

Auditory hallucinations are a common and troubling symptom in psychotic disorders. We aimed to identify measures that could be used by clinicians and researchers to assess the experience of auditory hallucinations. A literature review was conducted to identify auditory hallucination measures that were developed since the last such review in 1998. We identified 10 tools: eight self-report measures and two clinical interviews. The scales measured diverse constructs and are divided into four categories for review: multidimensional assessment, coping strategies, rating of beliefs and acceptance or mindfulness. Evidence of the measures' reliability, validity and sensitivity to change are discussed. There has been an expansion in the range of instruments available, particularly in self-report questionnaires and in measures that focus on psychological aspects such as attitudes and beliefs regarding voices.