Imagine recognizing your mother’s face… but feeling deep down that she’s not your real mom.
That’s the terrifying experience of someone with Capgras Syndrome — a rare psychiatric disorder where people believe loved ones have been replaced by identical imposters.
Brain scans show a disconnect between the visual recognition center and the emotional response circuits so the face is familiar, but the feeling of connection is missing.
It’s seen in people with schizophrenia, dementia, or after brain injury. Some even extend the belief to their homes, pets, or doctors.
If your brain betrayed your reality how would you ever know what’s real again?