MASS HYSTERIA Meaning and
Definition
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Mass hysteria is a sociopsychological phenomenon characterized by the rapid and widespread spread of intense, irrational, and often contagious emotions or behaviors within a specific group or community. It involves the manifestation of exaggerated, collective anxiety and fear that is grounded in an illusory or misinterpreted threat. Mass hysteria can occur spontaneously or be triggered by an actual event or incident, often leading to a cascade of shared symptoms among affected individuals.
During episodes of mass hysteria, individuals may exhibit a wide range of physical, emotional, or neurological symptoms. These symptoms are typically psychosomatic, meaning they are bodily manifestations of psychological distress rather than stemming from a physical cause. Examples of commonly observed symptoms during mass hysteria include fainting, dizziness, tremors, nausea, headaches, and uncontrollable screaming or crying.
The sociological and psychological factors contributing to mass hysteria are complex. They often involve a combination of underlying group dynamics, cognitive processes, and the power of suggestion or collective belief. Preexisting anxieties, social tensions, or religious and cultural beliefs may also influence the development and severity of mass hysteria.
Mass hysteria has occurred throughout history in various contexts, such as religious and spiritual gatherings, schools, workplaces, and even entire communities. It is frequently fueled by a shared sense of vulnerability, misinformation, or sensationalized reports. Despite its tendency to subside relatively quickly, mass hysteria can sometimes have significant social, economic, and psychological consequences, affecting not only the individuals directly involved but also wider public perception and behavior.
Common Misspellings for MASS HYSTERIA
- nass hysteria
- kass hysteria
- jass hysteria
- mzss hysteria
- msss hysteria
- mwss hysteria
- mqss hysteria
- maas hysteria
- mazs hysteria
- maxs hysteria
- mads hysteria
- maes hysteria
- maws hysteria
- masa hysteria
- masz hysteria
- masx hysteria
- masd hysteria
- mase hysteria
- masw hysteria
- mass gysteria
Etymology of MASS HYSTERIA
The word "mass" comes from the Latin word "massa", meaning "lump" or "quantity of matter". It was later adopted into Old English as "mæsse", referring to the religious service, particularly referring to the Eucharist in Christian worship.
"Hysteria" is derived from the Greek word "hystera", meaning "womb". In ancient times, it was believed that hysteria was a disorder exclusive to women and associated with disturbances of the uterus.
The term "mass hysteria" combines the concept of a large, collective gathering (mass) with the notion of widespread and often irrational behavior or emotional outbreak (hysteria). It refers to situations where a significant number of individuals in a particular group or community experience similar symptoms of excessive excitement, anxiety, or fear, often without a clear cause or basis.
Similar spelling words for MASS HYSTERIA
