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Prevalence of demographic correlates of paranoia-like thoughts in the non-clinical Polish population

Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction and objective: Paranoia involves a set of situationally inadequate beliefs about the threat posed by others, perceived as a source of intentional harm. Research indicates that milder forms of paranoid-like thoughts also exist in the healthy population. Hence, paranoia can currently be understood as a phenomenon existing on a continuum, reflecting the distribution of paranoid thoughts in the general population. The purpose of the study was to analyse the prevalence and severity of paranoia-like thoughts in the non-clinical population. Furthermore, demographic variables, i.e. gender, age, occupational situation, education, as well as the presence of mental or psychiatric disorders during life and the use of marijuana and other psychoactive substances were examined as factors contributing to the severity of paranoia-like thoughts. Materials and methods: The subjects were obtained from eight studies conducted between 2020 and 2022. Data from 3,869 individuals (71% female) aged 16–77 years were analysed concerning metrics and outcomes obtained on the Revised Green et al. Paranoid Thoughts Scale (R-GPTS). Results: The mean R-GPTS score was 13.31 (SD = 14.18). Only 10% of respondents declared no paranoid thoughts. Age, education, and place of residence were significant correlates. A significantly higher intensity of paranoia-like thoughts was observed in those diagnosed with mental disorders and those who had used psychoactive substances in the past year. Conclusions: In line with findings from other countries, most individuals in Poland experience some degree of paranoia-like thoughts, with severity associated with certain demographic variables and the presence of mental disorders.
DOI: 10.15557/pipk.2025.0040
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7140085083
FWCI:
Cites: 33
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Related to: 10