Shared Psychotic Disorder
 · 2 min read
 · Albert Wine-stein
Table of contents

Understanding Shared Psychotic Disorder: Features and Criteria

Introduction

Shared Psychotic Disorder, also known as Folie à Deux, occurs when two or more individuals share the same delusional belief, typically within the context of a close relationship. This disorder is often complex and under-discussed within mental health circles. Understanding its defining features and diagnostic criteria is essential for professionals and families dealing with impacted individuals.

Details

  • Defining Features

    • Shared Delusions

      • The core characteristic of Shared Psychotic Disorder is the presence of shared delusional beliefs.
      • One individual usually develops a primary delusion, which the other individual begins to adopt.

    • Close Relationship

      • This condition typically occurs in people who have a close emotional bond, such as family members or intimate partners.
      • Strong interpersonal relationships facilitate the sharing and reinforcement of delusional beliefs.

    • Duration of Delusion

      • The shared delusions must persist for a significant duration—typically lasting weeks or months.
      • If the primary individual’s delusions dissipate, the secondary individual’s shared beliefs usually diminish as well.

    • Impact on Functioning

      • The presence of delusions significantly impairs the functioning of both individuals involved.
      • This can affect social, occupational, or other significant areas of functioning.

    • Absence of Other Mental Disorders

      • The shared delusions must not be attributed to a primary mood disorder, personality disorder, or substance use.
      • A thorough evaluation must confirm the absence of other psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia.

  • Diagnostic Criteria (according to DSM-5)

    • Criterion A: Presence of a delusion

      • A delusion that is shared between two or more individuals must be present.
      • This delusion is typically of a non-bizarre nature (e.g., involving situations that could occur).

    • Criterion B: Duration

      • The delusion must persist for a significant amount of time, usually at least one month.
      • For diagnosis, the primary individual’s delusion must precede the secondary individual’s adoption.

    • Criterion C: Lack of other Disorders

      • The shared psychotic symptoms must not be better explained by another mental disorder.
      • Evaluations must ensure that other psychological conditions are ruled out.

    • Criterion D: Relationship Requirement

      • The individuals must share a close relationship at the time the delusions arise.
      • This relationship helps facilitate the shared beliefs.

    • Criterion E: Functional Impairment

      • Significant distress or impairment in social or occupational functioning must be evident.
      • This includes an inability to maintain employment or to engage in social activities due to the shared beliefs.

Conclusion

Shared Psychotic Disorder represents a unique interplay of delusions occurring in a close relationship between two or more individuals. Its defining features include the presence of shared delusions, the nature of relationships, duration, impairment, and the need to rule out other mental disorders. By understanding these features and the diagnostic criteria, clinicians can better identify and manage this complex disorder.