[Phenomenology of hysterical pseudopsychoses]

Clinical observation shows that hysteria can produce states that are difficult to differentiate from all forms of endogenous psychoses. Using phenomenological methodology, the elements and qualities of these hysterical states are analysed and described. It is demonstrated that the phenomena are properties of hysterical personalities, intensified and pronounced, but nevertheless intra- and extrapsychically targeted as "useful", i.e. serving a purpose. Phenomena that would be characteristic of real psychoses, are never seen. There is no "deprivation" of ego poser, and structural deformations are always absent. Considering the phenomenologico-psychopathological definitions of "psychosis", these hysterical states must be considered as pseudopsychoses.