What is a paranoid delusion characterized by?

A paranoid delusion is characterized primarily by a belief that one is being persecuted or targeted by others. This type of delusion involves intense feelings of suspicion and mistrust, often leading the individual to think that others are plotting against them, spying on them, or attempting to harm them in some way.

In the context of mental health, such beliefs can be debilitating and significantly impair an individual's ability to function in daily life, as they may become overly focused on perceived threats and harbor feelings of fear or anger towards those they believe are against them.

The other options represent different types of delusions. For example, believing one is revered and admired relates to grandiosity, while thinking one has unique powers relates to a delusional belief in special abilities. The belief in being seriously ill pertains to hypochondriasis or somatic delusions. Each of these represents a distinct cognitive distortion that differs from the core aspect of paranoid delusions.