Paranoia of Conscience

Paranoia of conscience is an outdated psychiatric term that was used to describe a state of excessive preoccupation and worry about moral principles and ethical standards.

People suffering from paranoia of conscience constantly analyze their thoughts and actions, trying to determine whether they meet high moral standards. They may experience intense remorse and guilt over even minor offenses or thoughts that most people would consider normal.

Paranoia of conscience is often accompanied by obsessive thoughts about sin, depravity and punishment. People with this disorder constantly analyze their behavior, trying to find any deviations from moral standards. They may spend hours in prayer and self-condemnation, trying to make amends for their perceived guilt.

This condition can cause significant mental discomfort and interfere with normal life. It is believed that paranoia of conscience is often the result of too strict moral education, especially in a religious environment.

Although the term is no longer used in modern psychiatry, a state of excessive moral anxiety and remorse is still occasionally observed in some patients. As a rule, psychotherapy is used to treat it.