Sometimes known as imposter syndrome, Capgras syndrome is a psychological condition where a person believes someone they know has been replaced by an imposter.
The syndrome is not well understood and may be linked to a variety of underlying conditions. In this article, we look at the symptoms and complications, potential causes, and some examples of Capgras syndrome.
A person with Capgras syndrome irrationally believes that someone they know has been replaced by an imposter. In some cases, they may also believe pets or even inanimate objects are imposters.
Capgras syndrome is named after Joseph Capgras, a French psychiatrist who, with a colleague, first described the disorder in 1923. It is one of several conditions classified as delusional misidentification syndromes (DMSs).
Although this psychological condition can affect anyone, it is more common in women than men.
Capgras syndrome can be very disturbing for the person affected, as well as for their loved ones. So, it is important for people witnessing the syndrome to seek advice from a doctor.
Symptoms of Capgras syndrome can be perplexing and frustrating for both the person affected and those around them.
Unlike other mental health conditions, which tend to impact many aspects of someone’s life, a person with Capgras syndrome acts normally except around the person or thing they believe is an imposter.
The most obvious symptom of Capgras syndrome is when someone starts to believe that a person close to them is either a double or has been replaced by someone else.
The person may acknowledge that the “imposter” looks exactly like the “original,” but they believe that they can see through the “disguise.” This can cause anxiety and changes in someone’s behavior.
In some cases, a person may be violent towards the “imposter,” although this is not always the case. It is more likely that the person will appear anxious or afraid.
The person affected by Capgras syndrome may become obsessed with the “imposter” or with finding the “real” person. This can lead to additional stress, anger, and arguments between the person affected and those around them.
The exact causes of Capgras syndrome are not known, but there are theories about why its symptoms occur.
One theory is that Capgras syndrome results from a brain injury involving lesions on the brain. Traumatic lesions on the brain were present in more than one-third of all documented cases of Capgras syndrome looked at in
Schizophrenia and epilepsy are also believed to be potential causes or co-occurring conditions. A
The following are some examples of reported cases of Capgras syndrome:
In this case, it is possible that the disorder was caused by a disconnect between visualization and facial recognition. Other recognition methods, such as voice recognition, were not affected.
In another case, a mother believed that her daughter had been removed by Child Protective Services and replaced with an imposter. The mother was diagnosed with Capgras syndrome and prescribed medication but could not be convinced of her daughter’s identity.
While cases of Capgras syndrome usually involve a close family member, such as a spouse, parent, or sibling being replaced, cases involving children are rare. In the above case, the child was removed from her mother’s care, as there was a risk of violence towards “the imposter.”
In a final case, a 59-year-old man experienced a variety of symptoms over several years, including language deterioration, restlessness, and obsessiveness over personal hygiene. He began to see his wife as a double and would spend time looking for his “real” wife.
The man did not display any angry or aggressive behavior but maintained that his wife was a double and addressed her in a doubtful, inquisitive way. He recognized other people with little difficulty.
Currently, there is no standard treatment for people affected by Capgras syndrome, and more research is needed to find the most effective way it can be treated.
In some cases, treating the underlying condition can reduce or cure someone’s symptoms. For example, controlling or treating Alzheimer’s disease may improve the symptoms of Capgras syndrome.
Treatments for underlying conditions vary widely, but may include:
- memory and recognition medications
In some cases, validation therapy may be useful. Validation therapy focuses on someone accepting the misidentification to help them relax and reduce anxiety.
In other cases, caregivers and facilities may actively attempt to ground the person in reality, as far as they can, by giving frequent reminders of the time and place.
Caregivers and family members can also assist by providing a safe and comfortable space free from external stressors, as much as possible.
Some general tips for caring for someone with Capgras syndrome include:
- Being patient and sympathizing, as Capgras syndrome can cause real fear and anxiety.
- Limiting exposure to the “imposter” when an episode is taking place.
- Having the “imposter” speak before they are seen, as their voice may be recognized.
- Acknowledging the feelings surrounding the identity confusion when they occur.
- Not arguing with the person about the “imposter” they think they are seeing.
Some people with Capgras syndrome may never achieve a full recovery. However, caregivers and family members can help reduce their loved one’s symptoms, including anxiety and fear.
Anyone experiencing or witnessing the symptoms of Capgras syndrome should speak to a doctor as soon as possible.