Functional brain imaging of auditory hallucinations: From self-monitoring deficits to co-opted neural resources

Abstract

We review functional brain imaging studies addressing possible neural mechanisms underlying the experience of auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs). We propose that AVHs arise from unbidden auditory verbal perceptions of other people talking that convey characteristic, and often disturbing or disruptive, content. Further, we propose that the “engine” for these experiences is a hyperconnected corticostriatal network resulting in otherwise nascent activity gaining access to consciousness. This network is responsible for registration of sensory aspects of experience, including the acoustic vocal characteristics. The nonself perception of this experience may result from dysfunction in the efference copy/corollary discharge mechanism.