Defence mechanisms and attachment styles in paranoid ideation evaluated in a sample of non-clinical young adults.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate defence mechanisms and attachment styles in paranoid ideation through a cross-sectional design with sequential recruitment of subjects.

METHODS

Five hundred and fifty non-clinical subjects were recruited from university students. A psychometric protocol comprising paranoid ideation scale of Symptoms Check List (SCL-90-R-Par) to identify paranoid ideation, Defence Style Questionnaire (DSQ-40) to evaluate defence mechanisms, and Relationship Questionnaire (RQ) to measure attachment styles was then administered.

RESULTS

We found a significant predictive value of immature defence mechanisms (β=0.48; p<0.0001) and preoccupied attachment style (β=0.25; p<0.0001) in the paranoid ideation. Moreover, subjects reporting a preoccupied or fearful attachment style showed higher levels of paranoia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that paranoid ideation is mainly characterised by immature defence mechanisms. A clear insecure attachment style associated with paranoia was also found. The assessment of paranoid ideation should therefore consider the role of attachment style and defence mechanisms as an integral part during the diagnostic and therapeutic processes.