MASS HYSTERIA: Definition, History and Characteristics
Mass Hysteria, also known as collective hysteria, is a phenomenon where a group of people develop a shared, irrational fear or delusion, usually in response to a real or imagined threat. It is characterized by a collective behavior that is not explainable by rational means, and is often rooted in psychological and sociological factors. Mass hysteria has been known to occur throughout history, and continues to be a phenomenon in modern times.
Definition
Mass hysteria is a phenomenon where a group of people develop a shared, irrational fear or delusion, usually in response to a real or imagined threat. It is characterized by collective behavior that is not explainable by rational means, and is rooted in psychological and sociological factors. Symptoms of mass hysteria can range from physical to psychological, and may include symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, and confusion.
History
Mass hysteria has been known to occur throughout history, with some of the earliest recorded instances occurring in the middle ages. In 14th century Europe, there were multiple reports of outbreaks of mass hysteria, including cases of people believing they were possessed by demons. In the 16th century, there were reports of people believing they were cursed by witches. In the 19th century, there were multiple reports of outbreaks of mass hysteria in the form of mass fainting, often in response to a religious sermon or a perceived threat.
In the 20th century, mass hysteria has been seen in multiple contexts, including in response to war, rumors of nuclear attacks, and media coverage. One of the most notable examples of mass hysteria in the 20th century was the Salem witch trials in the United States.
Characteristics
Mass hysteria is characterized by a collective behavior that is not explainable by rational means. It is often rooted in psychological and sociological factors, such as fear, anxiety, stress, and the desire to conform to the group. It is also often linked to collective beliefs and shared emotions.
Mass hysteria typically occurs in response to a perceived threat or fear, and often involves physical symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and confusion. It is also associated with irrational behavior and a sense of panic or alarm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mass hysteria is a phenomenon where a group of people develop a shared, irrational fear or delusion, usually in response to a real or imagined threat. It is characterized by collective behavior that is not explainable by rational means, and is often rooted in psychological and sociological factors. Mass hysteria has been known to occur throughout history, and continues to be a phenomenon in modern times.
References
Baker, D. (1993). Mass hysteria: A historical review. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 27(3), 459–471. https://doi.org/10.3109/00048679309055939
Kapferer, B. (2005). Mass hysteria: From Witchcraft to the War on Terror. Journal of Consumer Culture, 5(3), 225–247. https://doi.org/10.1177/1469540505054726
Kendall-Tackett, K. A., & Simon, J. E. (2017). Mass hysteria: An overview. Traumatology, 23(3), 131–137. https://doi.org/10.1037/trm0000118
Kirmayer, L. J., & Descarreaux, M. (2011). Mass hysteria and public health: The role of culture in the expression of distress. Social Science & Medicine, 72(6), 861–867. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2010.12.002