A delusion of grandeur is the fixed, false belief that one possesses superior qualities such as genius, fame, omnipotence, or wealth. It is most often a symptom of schizophrenia, but can also be a symptom found in psychotic or bipolar disorders, as well as dementia (such as Alzheimer’s).
People with a delusion of grandeur often have the conviction of having some great but unrecognized talent or insight. They may also believe they have made some important discovery that others don’t understand or appreciate.
Compulsive or Pathological Liar?
Most experts identify compulsive lying as the habit of lying uncontrollably. People with this condition may simply be more comfortable telling lies than telling the truth. They may lie repeatedly about important as well as unimportant matters. Those who lie compulsively may be affected by low self-esteem.
Some therapists believe individuals may develop this habit as a result of living in an environment where the practice of deception is an advantage. Further, many who lie compulsively often have no ulterior motive for lying and tell lies that result in personal damage. Even after their falsehoods have been exposed, people who lie compulsively may still have difficulty admitting the truth.
- Preoccupation with fantasies of extreme success, power, or fame
- Constant need for admiration and affirmation
- A strong sense of entitlement
- Envy of others, particularly their achievements, or believes that others should envy him or her
- Inflated sense of self-esteem; megalomaniacal tendencies
- Belief that he or she is special or unique
- Setting unrealistic goals
- Exploitation of others
- Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
- Lack of empathy or ability to take responsibility for behaviors
- Cannot tolerate criticism
- Inflated ego and/or self-esteem (false beliefs in special abilities, delusions of grandeur)
- Increase in goal-directed activity
- Racing thoughts/flight of ideas
- Decreased need for sleep
- Pressured, rapid speech
- Reckless behavior(s) such as sexual promiscuity and excessive spending
- Increased distractibility
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