Models of persecutory delusions: a mechanistic insight into the early stages of psychosis

Mol Psychiatry. 2019 Sep;24(9):1258-1267. doi: 10.1038/s41380-019-0427-z. Epub 2019 May 10.

Abstract

Identifying robust markers for predicting the onset of psychosis has been a key challenge for early detection research. Persecutory delusions are core symptoms of psychosis, and social cognition is particularly impaired in first-episode psychosis patients and individuals at risk for developing psychosis. Here, we propose new avenues for translation provided by hierarchical Bayesian models of behaviour and neuroimaging data applied in the context of social learning to target persecutory delusions. As it comprises a mechanistic model embedded in neurophysiology, the findings of this approach may shed light onto inference and neurobiological causes of transition to psychosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Anxiety
  • Bayes Theorem
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Computational Biology / methods
  • Delusions / diagnosis*
  • Delusions / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Paranoid Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Paranoid Disorders / metabolism
  • Psychotic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Psychotic Disorders / metabolism
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Behavior