Visual hallucinations during hallucinogenic experience and schizophrenia.
A Marsh
Schizophrenia Bulletin 1979 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/5.4.627 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | A 26-year-old woman who experienced visual hallucinations under hallucinogens and during schizophrenia |
| Key findings | Proposes that three kinds of visual hallucination—superimposed hallucinations, spatial and depth distortions, and animations—form consecutive gradations on a continuum of the ego function of reality testing, with superimposed hallucinations reflecting the least and animations the greatest disorientation. Argues for research comparing hallucinations in schizophrenia with toxic hallucinations in nonschizophrenics. |
Abstract
The visual hallucinations experienced by a 26-year-old woman under the influence of hallucinogens and during schizophrenia are described. Three types of hallucinations are delineated: (1) superimposed hallucinations, (2) spatial and depth distortions, and (3) animations. These three types of hallucinations appear to represent consecutive gradations on a continuum of the ego function of reality testing, with superimposed hallucinations revealing the least and animations the greatest degree of disorientation. The findings of the present study indicate the need for a research design that compares the hallucinations of schizophrenics to the toxic hallucinations of nonschizophrenics.