PSYCHOTIC-LIKE IDEATIONS AMONG A GROUP OF YOUNG NORMAL SUBJECTS IN IRAN

Background: Recent studies show that self-reported psychotic-like experiences in general population samples are quite common and on a continuum with psychotic symptoms in clinical samples. However, most evidence comes from western set-tings and there is a dearth of research in developing countries. Examination of these experiences across different cultures adds to their validity. Aims: To assess psychotic-like ideations and its association with poor mental health in a group of young normal individuals in Iran. Methods: A total of 150 medical students with no history of a psychiatric disorder completed the Peters et al. Delusions Inventory (PDI-40) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Psychotic-like ideations were rated on the basis of their presence, as well as their levels of distress, preoccupation and conviction (PDI sub-scores). Results: On average, 9.4 psychotic-like ideations were reported by the subjects (range 0–28). More frequent psychotic-like ideations and higher distress and preoccupation associated with these ideations were correlated with poor mental health as assessed by the GHQ. Conclusion: Frequency of psychotic-like ideation and its dimensions, as well as its association with poor mental health, were comparable to the studies on healthy subjects conducted in Europe. Key words: psychotic disorders, delusions, dimensional approach, developing countrie