| Features | True Insanity | Feigned Insanity |
|---|---|---|
| Onset of Symptom | Gradual | Sudden |
| Motive | Absent (No History of Crime) | Present (to use insanity as defence) |
| Signs & Symptom | Present irrespective of observation. | Present only when person is conscious of being observed and always exaggerated and symptoms do not fit in any particular diagnosis |
| Mood | Excited, depressed or fluctuating | May overact to show abnormality in mood. |
| Facial Expressions | Peculiar like vacant look ,or fixed look of excitement | Frequently changing, exaggerated and voluntary |
| Insomnia | Present | Not present ,sound sleep after one or two days |
| Exertion | Can stand exertion of fatigue, hunger and sleep for several days without breaking down. | Cannot stand exertion for more than few days and breaks down. |
| Habits | Dirty & Filthy | Not dirty and filthy |
| Skin and Lips | Dry , Harsh | Normal |
| Frequent Examination | Does not Mind | Resents for fear of detedtion |
| Predisposing Factors | Usually ,Present such as positive family history or history of major setbacks | Absent |