Cliff was one of my most difficult cases. His disbelief in most animals was disturbing. Early on, we took a field trip to the zoo. Cliff refused to believe an elephant seal was real - even though he was looking right at it. He argued that, even the animals did exist on their own, it was impossible for something to be both a seal and an elephant. It took a while, but eventually Cliff came around.
Jessie was an interesting patient. Her disbelief in @#$%!#!! was strange and, unfortunately for her, a detriment to her day to day life. When she told me that she was not allowed to go to the town library anymore because she asked for a book on %$@#!!, I knew she needed help. Jessie has come a long way since then.
Not only was David's disbelief of gravity absurd, it was dangerous. Over 5 years he'd broken multiple bones, and put himself in many dangerous situations. Of all the disbelief cases I have seen over the years, David's was among the most critical. Fortunately David responded to treatment well and it likely he will be able to live a normal life.
I.D.S. (or Irrational Disbelief Syndrome) is when people have a hard time believing in things universally understood to be true. If you don't believe in Denmark, Gravity or Tasty Fiber - then you may be suffering from I.D.S. Learn more about the condition over 3 billion Americans may be suffering from.
