Clinical profiles of people with persecutory vs. grandiose delusions who engage in psychological therapy during an acute inpatient admission

Persecutory and grandiose delusions are the most commonly reported sub-types of delusions within inpatient populations. However, little is known about whether clinical profiles might differ between these sub-types, within a sample of patients who agree to engage in a psychological therapy during an acute inpatient admission. We report data on 41 participants who took part in the amBITION study, a randomised controlled trial of a brief talking therapy for psychosis on inpatient wards. Participants with persecutory and grandiose delusions were compared on i) clinical and demographic profiles, ii) psychotic and affective symptoms, and iii) inpatient treatment received (both psychological and pharmacological). Average ratings of frequency of delusions and believability/conviction at the start of therapy were similar between those with persecutory and grandiose delusions. Number of therapy sessions completed, satisfaction with therapy, and medication received, was similar between both groups. Our findings indicate that people with persecutory or grandiose delusions may report distress associated with their experiences, and so be willing to engage in a psychological therapy.