Abstract
Describes an empirical approach to the study of monothematic delirium and its premises of basic etiology, rationality, and conservation of significance. The empirical approach considers that the proximal cause of a delirium belief is an extreme isolating experience. Delirium beliefs are a rational response to this isolating experience, and the terms used by delirious people to express a delirium belief conserve their normal significance. Clinical data that support the empirical approach to delirium are discussed in addition to criticisms of the empirical approach and reactions to the criticisms.
| Translated title of the contribution | The empirical approach to delusion: a clarification and a defense |
|---|---|
| Original language | Italian |
| Pages (from-to) | 223-236 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Journal | Sistemi Intelligenti |
| Volume | 16 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2004 |
Keywords
- empirical approach
- proximal cause
- delirium belief
- clinical data
- monothematic delirium
- terms
- criticisms
- etiology
- rationality
- conservation of significance