[Factor analysis of the features of delusions]

The aim of the study was the analysis of the frequency of various traits of delusions and the search for smaller number of factors which create delusional beliefs by using the factor analysis. The cohort consisted of 100 patients with the diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia according to DSM-III who presented delusions at the time of evaluation. Author's Scale of Delusional Dimension which consisted of 34 items describing several traits of delusions, was used. Statistical elaboration of data allowed to point out following conclusions: 1. Analysis of the frequency of particular traits of delusions shows their high subjective variability in several patients, with the exception of features which indicate the deep conviction in truthful beliefs, and features indicating their influence of patient's behaviour. 2. Factor analysis revealed that all evaluated traits create 5 independent factors: I. engagement-eccentricity, II. certainty, III. influence on behaviour-extent, IV. range of influence, V. delusional construction. 3. Results show the complexity of the phenomenon of delusions and suggest further investigations especially with dynamic aspects.