The phenomenon of auditory hallucinations in clinical populations of non-psychotic children is an intriguing and little understood area. To date, investigations in this area have reported on a range of correlates, including family histories of psychiatric illness, family dysfunction, and significant levels of stress in the children themselves. The current study reported on 10 non-psychotic children drawn from a number of community based child and family agencies that provide therapeutic out-patient services. Consistent with previous studies this study found strong associations with family dysfunction, specifically family break-up, as well as significant levels of anxiety and depression in the these children. In addition, half the children reported the presence of imaginary companions. Despite some confirmation of previous findings, many other features of this phenomenon remain unanswered including the different psychological functions that hallucinations and imaginary companions serve for emotionally troubled children. Two case studies describe the family histories and hallucinations in more detail. / Thesis (MPsy(Clinical))--University of South Australia, 2006.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/267351 |
| Creators | Best, Nicole |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | copyright under review |
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