A comparison of auditory hallucinations in a psychiatric and non-psychiatric group

Abstract

Objectives: To compare auditory hallucinations in a psychiatric and non-psychiatric sample.

Design: Between-participants group design: a psychiatric group of 14 patients with schizophrenia, and a non-psychiatric group of 16 participants with tinnitus.

Method: Participants were interviewed using the Mental Health Research Institute Unusual Perceptions Scale (MUPS).

Results: The type of hallucinations differed: participants with tinnitus predominantly heard music, whereas the patients with schizophrenia heard voices speaking. The groups also differed in their explanations of the hallucinations. However, there were similarities in contributory factors, emotional responses and coping strategies.

Conclusions: The study highlights the multi-dimensional nature of the auditory hallucinatory experience, and opportunities for intervention.