Pavlov's conceptualization of paranoia within the theory of higher nervous activity

Abstract

In 1934, I. P. Pavlov conceptualized paranoia within his theory of higher nervous activity. The conceptualization was based on the case study method used in the Psychiatric Clinic where Pavlov observed five cases diagnosed by psychiatrists as paranoiac or paranoid states. Furthermore, experiments with dogs as subjects produced behaviours that appeared analogous to paranoiac characteristics observed in the clinic. Pavlov's paranoia theory did not differ much from Ernst Kretschmer's 1927 explanation of the formation of paranoia. Hereditary predisposition and traumatic life experiences make, according to Pavlov, some centres in the brain more active than nearby areas, which results in preoccupation with certain ideas. Imbalance between neural excitation and inhibition creates a condition where weak external stimuli produce strong reactions, which explains paranoiac overreaction to the feeling of inferiority. Some suggestions as to Pavlov's interest in paranoia are offered.