Paroniria

Paroniria is a term used in psychology and, less frequently, in general parlance to describe a specific type of delusional belief where an individual believes they are being poorly or inadequately supported, assisted, or aided by others. The belief typically centers around the perceived lack of concern, effort, or competence on the part of those who are supposedly responsible for providing assistance or support.

This delusion is not characterized by the explicit persecution or malicious intent that defines paranoia. Rather, it involves a sense that others are deliberately or carelessly failing to meet the individual's perceived needs or expectations, whether those needs are real or imagined. The individual may feel neglected, overlooked, or that their requests are being ignored or inadequately addressed.

Unlike simple dissatisfaction or complaint, paroniria represents a fixed, false belief that persists even in the face of contradictory evidence or reasonable explanations. This belief can significantly impact the individual's relationships and daily functioning, leading to frustration, anger, and social withdrawal. It can also manifest as excessive demands, criticism, and a general distrust of others' capabilities or willingness to help.

The term is not in widespread clinical use as a primary diagnostic category. Paroniric beliefs can be a symptom of various underlying mental health conditions, including but not limited to personality disorders (such as paranoid or borderline personality disorder), depressive disorders, or delusional disorders. The severity and specific characteristics of the paroniria can vary depending on the underlying condition.