The Use of Behavioral Experiments to Modify Delusions and Paranoia: Clinical Guidelines and Recommendations

Recently, there has been a renewed interested in the treatment of psychosis and it is now appears possible to modify specific symptoms of psychosis such as paranoia and delusions using methods derived from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. One specific technique that has received less attention is the use of behavioral experiments. In this paper, we will focus on the treatment of delusions and paranoia using behavioral experiments. To put behavioral experiments in the context of treatment, we will first provide a brief review of cognitive-behavioral treatment of psychosis. This will be followed by a discussion of the different types and goals of behavioral experiments as well as specific recommendations and guidelines for the use of experiments for delusions and paranoia. We will conclude with a case study to illustrate the use of behavioral experiments in treatment.