thought echo
A first-rank symptom of schizophrenia where patients hear their own thoughts spoken aloud, either as they think them or shortly after.
Full Definition
Thought echo is a specific type of auditory hallucination classified as a Schneiderian first-rank symptom, where patients experience hearing their own thoughts as if spoken by an external voice. This phenomenon can occur simultaneously with thinking (synchronous) or immediately after the thought (asynchronous). Unlike thought broadcasting, where patients believe others can hear their thoughts, thought echo involves the actual auditory perception of one's own thoughts. This symptom is considered particularly significant in the diagnosis of schizophrenia, though it can occasionally occur in other psychotic disorders or severe mood disorders with psychotic features.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from thought broadcasting in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient described thought echo, hearing his thoughts repeated back to him in a different voice." — Psychotic symptom documentation
- "Presence of thought echo supports the diagnosis of schizophrenia per Schneider's first-rank symptoms." — Diagnostic evaluation