Thought insertion is the idea that another thinks through the mind of the patient. The patient may sometimes be unable to distinguish between their own thoughts and those inserted into their minds. A patient who is diagnosed with this disorder is found to be convinced of their beliefs and unwilling to accept such diagnosis.[1] It is a symptom of psychosis which occurs in many mental disorders and other medical conditions. Thought insertion along with thought broadcasting, thought withdrawal, thought blocking as well as other first rank symptoms are primary symptoms and should not be confused with the delusional explanation given by the respondent.
The ICD-10 defines thought insertion as the feeling that your thoughts are not your own. The person experiencing the thought insertion will not necessarily know where the thought is coming from. [2]