The authors propose a cybernetic model for the formation and maintenance
of persecutory delusions. During the formation of persecutory ideation, the
threat of loss of control over the self or others interacts with
predictions of control from others. This interaction may result in feelings
of alien control followed by persecutory explanations. Since the
persecutory explanations provide the individual with a new goal of
resisting others' influence in order to prevent being controlled, they
reduce the threat of loss of self- control. This is how persecutory
delusions are maintained.Abstract Teaser