[Multidimensionality of inner speech and its relationship with abnormal perceptions]

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Inner speech is linked to cognitive functions and mental health disorders.
• Inner speech is a primary source of auditory hallucinations.

Purpose of the Study:

• Validate the Varieties of Inner Speech Questionnaire (VISQ) in a Colombian sample.
• Investigate the relationship between inner speech patterns and abnormal perceptions.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study with 232 college students.
• Utilized the Varieties of Inner Speech Questionnaire (VISQ) and Cardiff Anomalous Perceptions Scale (CAPS).

Main Results:

• Exploratory factor analysis revealed three factors: Other Voices, Condensed Inner Speech, and Dialogical/Evaluative Inner Speech.
• Significant gender differences observed in Condensed and Dialogical/Evaluative Inner Speech.
• Positive correlations found between VISQ factors and CAPS factors (perceptual alterations, temporal lobe experiences).

Conclusions:

• Findings support the link between inner speech factors and auditory hallucination propensity.
• Inner speech patterns are associated with temporal lobe abnormalities.
• Further research is needed to explain hallucinations in other perceptual systems.