[Evolution of views on the phenomenon of spiritual possession within the framework of psychiatric pathology (psychopathological, transnosological and transcultural aspects)].
Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova January 1, 2024 E V Gedevani, A G Alekseeva, O A Borisova et al.
Spiritual possession phenomenon (SPP) is a complex syndrome found across cultures and diagnoses, where patients feel controlled by a spirit, demon, or other entity. Current disease classifications do not clearly distinguish SPP as a separate mental disorder or specify its treatment. This review analyzed scientific studies on SPP in mature adults, searching databases from the 1800s to present. The authors conclude that psychiatric views on SPP have shifted over time but remain unresolved. SPP is a challenging multidisciplinary problem needing further interdisciplinary study, detailed clinical analysis, and a definitive place in psychiatry.