On the artistic shaping of delusion in psychosis

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to discuss delusion as a creative experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper addresses narrative rendering of delusional thinking in detail and related styles of thought in artists.

Findings

Enhanced creativity during psychosis can be put to productive use in recovery. Artistic cultures may help psychosis sufferers move to a more socially inclusive, consensual view of reality.

Originality/value

The paper emphasises the artistic aspect of psychosis as a counterweight to the “machine aesthetic” of positivistic science and also stresses the importance of spiritual experience to recovery.

Citation

Chadwick, P. (2012), "On the artistic shaping of delusion in psychosis", Mental Health and Social Inclusion, Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 26-30. https://doi.org/10.1108/20428301211205874