paranoia cultural definition

A form of psychosis marked by delusions of persecution and of grandeur. One who suffers from paranoia is paranoid.

• In popular terminology, a “paranoid” personality is characterized by suspicion and distrust of others; a tendency to look for hidden meaning behind other people's actions; argumentativeness; complaining; low tolerance for criticism; and a constant display of one's own talents, accomplishments, independence, and rationality.