The spelling of the word "doubting mania" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "doubt," is pronounced as /daʊt/, where the "ou" sounds like the "ow" in "cow." The second syllable, "ing," is pronounced as /ɪŋ/, where the "i" sounds like the "i" in "bit." The final syllable, "mania," is pronounced as /ˈmeɪniə/, where the stress is on the first syllable and the "a" sounds like the "a" in "cat." Altogether, "doubting mania" is pronounced as /daʊt.ɪŋ.ˈmeɪniə/.
Doubting mania refers to a psychological condition characterized by an excessive and persistent tendency to harbor doubts and skepticism about one's beliefs, decisions, and actions. It is marked by an overwhelming sense of uncertainty and hesitation, leading the individual to question and second-guess themselves excessively and without valid reasons.
Individuals experiencing doubting mania often find it extremely challenging to trust their own judgments, leading to constant inner conflicts and indecisiveness. This state of mind can be extremely distressing and can significantly impair one's ability to function in their daily lives. The doubts and skepticism may extend to various aspects of life, including personal relationships, professional endeavors, and moral or ethical beliefs.
People with doubting mania may analyze and reanalyze their thoughts and actions, searching for flaws and potential mistakes, often without apparent evidence or logical reasoning. This relentless self-doubt can lead to a persistent sense of anxiety, fear, and the need for reassurance from others.
It is important to distinguish doubting mania from healthy skepticism or critical thinking. While skepticism is a rational inquiry and questioning of information, doubting mania represents an irrational and excessive manifestation of self-doubt that often lacks a logical foundation.
Treatment for doubting mania typically involves psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and potentially the use of medication, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, if necessary. The aim is to help individuals manage their excessive doubts, gain confidence in their decision-making, and improve their overall quality of life.
Folie de doute, an excessive dubiety about all the affairs of life and a morbid scrupulosity in regard to minutiae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The phrase "doubting mania" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two English words. However, a breakdown of the etymology of each individual word can provide insight.
1. Doubting: The word "doubting" is derived from the Middle English word "douten" which means "to fear" or "to be uncertain". It can be traced back to the Old French word "douter" and the Latin word "tutiare", both of which have similar meanings. Ultimately, it is believed to have come from the Proto-Indo-European root "teutéh₂" which means "to fear" or "be afraid".
2. Mania: The word "mania" has Greek origins, specifically from the ancient Greek word "manía". It refers to a state of madness, frenzy, or excessive enthusiasm.