The client states, "I am convinced my wife and brother-in-law want to kill me." What kind of delusion is this?

This statement reflects a delusion of persecution, which is characterized by the belief that one is being targeted or harmed by others. In this scenario, the client believes that specific individuals—his wife and brother-in-law—are conspiring to cause him harm, suggesting that he feels threatened by them. This type of delusion often leads individuals to feel anxious and distrustful, as they perceive a real intent to harm from those around them.

Contrasting this with other delusions, a delusion of reference involves the belief that common elements in the environment are directly related to oneself, while a delusion of grandeur features an inflated sense of self-importance or power. A delusion of erotomania specifically pertains to the belief that someone, often of higher status, is in love with the individual. Each of these delusions represents different themes and concerns, but in this case, the fear of harm from trusted family members distinctly categorizes it as a delusion of persecution.