A delusion is a false belief that is firmly held even when direct evidence that the belief is false is presented to a person.
A delusion is much more than just a strong or unreasonable belief; it is a false belief that is held so firmly that it reflects a person being out of touch with reality.
Examples of common delusions include:
- Grandiose delusions about inflated worth, power, or status (e.g., someone believing that he is actually a religious figure)
- Persecutory delusions in which the central theme is that the person is being watched, attacked, or harassed (e.g., someone believing that he is being followed by government agents)
- Thought broadcasting delusions that a persons thoughts are somehow being broadcast so that other people can see or hear them

