A Latent Class Analysis of Hallucination-like Experiences in Nonclinical Adults from Jammu and Kashmir.

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS: Hallucination-like experiences (HLE) are increasingly conceptualized as existing on a continuum ranging from normative perceptual anomalies to clinically significant psychotic symptoms. Although substantial research has examined HLE in nonclinical populations, comparatively limited evidence is available from South Asian contexts, particularly using person-centered approaches. The present study investigated the latent structures of HLE in a nonclinical sample from Jammu and Kashmir using the Launay-Slade Hallucination Scale, extended version (LSHS-E). It was hypothesized that distinct latent subgroups differing primarily in the severity of HLE endorsement would emerge within the sample.

STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional design was employed with 382 adults recruited through online and paper-pencil survey administration. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the four-factor structure of the LSHS-E, demonstrating acceptable model fit (Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.929, Tucker Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.913, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.068, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) = 0.044). The scale demonstrated excellent overall internal consistency (α = .90), with subscale reliabilities ranging from acceptable to good (α = .73-.79). Item-level analyses indicated generally low endorsement of HLE within the sample, although intrusive thoughts and vivid imagery-related experiences were comparatively more common.

STUDY RESULTS: Latent class analysis identified a three-class solution comprising low endorsement (47.4 %), moderate endorsement (31.0 %), and high endorsement (21.6 %) profiles. The classes differed primarily in severity rather than qualitatively distinct symptom patterns, supporting quasi-continuum models of psychosis. Demographic variables did not significantly predict latent class membership.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the findings support the quasi-continuum and person-centered conceptualization of hallucination-proneness and contribute culturally informed evidence regarding the heterogeneity within a South Asian nonclinical population.