Cynanthropy

Cynanthropy is a psychological condition where a person believes they have transformed into, or possess characteristics of, a dog or wolf. This condition is a type of clinical lycanthropy, a rare psychiatric syndrome that involves a delusion that the affected person can transform into, has transformed into, or is a non-human animal.

History[edit | edit source]

The term "cynanthropy" comes from the Greek words "kyon" or "kynos" meaning "dog" and "anthropos" meaning "man". The phenomenon has been recorded since ancient times, with instances appearing in ancient Greek literature and mythology. For example, the myth of Lycaon, a king transformed into a wolf as a punishment by Zeus, is an early example of cynanthropy.

Symptoms and Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Cynanthropy is characterized by a person's belief that they are a dog or have the characteristics of a dog. This can manifest in a variety of ways, including behaving like a dog, feeling a compulsion to eat raw meat, or experiencing a heightened sense of smell.

Diagnosis of cynanthropy is typically made by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist through a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. The condition is often associated with other mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for cynanthropy typically involves addressing the underlying mental health disorder. This can include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Antipsychotic medications are often used to treat the delusions associated with cynanthropy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can also be beneficial in helping the individual to recognize and change their delusional beliefs.