Do I Have Capgras Syndrome?

Do you believe that a person close to you is either a double or has been replaced by someone else?

Do you act normally except around the person or thing you believe is an imposter?

Do you acknowledge that the “imposter” looks exactly like the “original,” but do you believe that you can see through the “disguise”?

Do you feel anxious and do you experience changes in behavior because of the “imposter”?

Do you act violent against the “imposter”?

Are you obsessed with the “imposter” or with finding the “real” person, and does this lead to additional stress, anger, and arguments between you and those around you?

Based on your answer, it is unlikely that you have Capgras syndrome. Capgras syndrome is also known as ‘imposter syndrome’ and is a psychological condition where a person believes someone they know has been replaced by an imposter. Sometimes they even believe pets or inanimate objects are imposters. It can be very frustrating for the sufferer, but also for their loved ones. It’s important to seek advice from a doctor if a person is having symptoms of the syndrome.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have Capgras syndrome. Capgras syndrome is also known as ‘imposter syndrome’ and is a psychological condition where a person believes someone they know has been replaced by an imposter. The syndrome can be frustrating for you, and also for the people around you. The exact causes of the syndrome are not known, but it is believed to be the result of a brain injury, dementia, schizophrenia or epilepsy. There are no standard treatment options yet, more research is needed. Treatment may include medication (antipsychotics), therapy, and surgery. Sometimes validation therapy helps, in which someone learns to accept the misidentification.