Professional
Technical
IVT
thought broadcasting
A delusion in which patients believe their thoughts can be heard or accessed by others without verbal expression.
Full Definition
Thought broadcasting is a first-rank symptom of schizophrenia characterized by the patient's conviction that their thoughts are being transmitted to or perceived by others without any action on their part. This phenomenon represents a fundamental disturbance in the boundary between self and others, often causing significant distress and social withdrawal. It differs from thought insertion or withdrawal as it involves the belief that one's own thoughts are being shared rather than externally influenced.
Usage
Usage note: Part of Schneider's first-rank symptoms; always use as a compound noun.
In Context
- "The patient reported thought broadcasting, believing that strangers on the street could hear his internal dialogue." — psychiatric evaluation
- "Thought broadcasting contributed to the patient's social isolation and reluctance to leave home." — case formulation
Also known as
thought transmission
Don't confuse with
thought insertion
thought withdrawal
auditory hallucinations