Anomalous self-experience in depersonalization and schizophrenia: A comparative investigation

► Disturbance of 'basic sense of self' (minimal self, ipseity) has been put forward as a key element of schizophrenia. ► Sense of self is also disturbed in depersonalization disorder (DPD). ► We examined case reports of DPD using a detailed phenomenological inventory, the EASE. ► Many areas of overlap and some discrepancies (notably self/world confusion) between schizophrenia and DPD were identified. ► We discuss this in the context of the idea that disturbed basic sense of self is crucial in development of schizophrenia.