Mass hysteria

Mass hysteria, also known as collective hysteria, group hysteria, or collective obsessional behavior, is a phenomenon that transmits collective illusions of threats, whether real or imaginary, through a population and society as a result of rumors and fear.

Definition

Mass hysteria is a highly contagious and rapidly spreading reaction to perceived threats or events that can cause physical symptoms and irrational behaviors within a group of people. It is a type of psychogenic illness, which involves a rapid spread of illness signs and symptoms affecting members of a cohesive group, originating from a nervous system disturbance.

History

Historically, mass hysteria has been documented and studied since the Middle Ages. Some of the most famous cases include the Dancing Plague of 1518, the Salem witch trials, and more recently, the War of the Worlds broadcast panic.

Causes

The causes of mass hysteria are often poorly understood, but it is generally believed to be a combination of psychological and social factors. These can include stress, fear, and the influence of authority figures or the media. The spread of mass hysteria can be facilitated by rumors, misinformation, and other forms of communication, such as social media.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mass hysteria can vary widely, but often include fainting, hyperventilation, panic, screaming, and a variety of physical symptoms without an identifiable cause. These symptoms can be so severe that they mimic those of a serious illness, leading to further panic and confusion.

Treatment

Treatment for mass hysteria typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the hysteria, such as correcting misinformation or reducing stress. In some cases, individual or group therapy may be beneficial.

See also

• List of mass hysteria cases
• Collective behavior
• Crowd psychology
• Folie à deux
• Moral panic

External links

• Britannica: Mass Hysteria