The Delusion of Inanimate Doubles

Abstract

A review of new cases of delusional misidentification reported between 1986 and 1992 suggests that the delusion of inanimate doubles is a variant of the Capgras phenomenon in approximately 10% of cases. It is argued that this variant makes current psychological theories of misidentification untenable.

Sequential Cotard and Capgras delusions

“…Feelings of derealization obviously form a prominent component of the clinical picture in many published cases of Capgras delusion and Cotard delusion. More precisely, Lewis (1987), Anderson (1988) and have suggested that the Capgras delusion involves damage to neuro-anatomical pathways responsible for appropriate emotional reactions to familiar visual stimuli. The delusion would then represent the patient's attempt to make sense of these puzzling changes.…”

Capgras Syndrome: A Review of the Neurophysiological Correlates and Presenting Clinical Features in Cases Involving Physical Violence

“…The occurrence of CS has been reported among individuals of various ethnic backgrounds (11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17) and across a wide range of ages (14,(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24). The syndrome is exhibited in both sexes, although some authors have reported a higher prevalence among women (3,22,(25)(26)(27).…”

‗Alice in Wonderland‘ syndrome as a precursor of delusional misidentification syndromes

“…1 The second group includes a belief that objects have been replaced by doubles and a belief that a significant person has been substituted by a near double. These two false beliefs correspond to the delusion of inanimate doubles 3 and Capgras delusion, 4 respectivel y, both of which are classifie d as DMSs. 2 Evans and Raistrick listed 12 phenomena that result from toluene intoxication.…”