Phaneromania is a psychiatric term referring to a disorder wherein an individual has an extreme preoccupation with visible bodily defects or perceived imperfections in their appearance. This term is spelled as /ˌfænəroʊˈmeɪniə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The word consists of the prefix "phanero-", meaning visible or apparent, and the suffix "-mania", meaning an obsession or compulsion. The correct spelling should always be used in discussions of this disorder to avoid confusion or potential misinterpretation.
Phaneromania is a noun that refers to a pathological or excessive obsession with becoming famous or well-known. It can be described as an intense desire for recognition and public attention, often driven by one's personal insecurities or an insatiable need for validation. The term is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "phaneros," meaning visible or manifest, and "mania," meaning an excessive or abnormal enthusiasm.
Individuals suffering from phaneromania may display certain behaviors and characteristics that focus excessively on self-promotion and the pursuit of fame. This could include a strong desire to be constantly in the public eye, a preoccupation with gaining followers or fans on social media platforms, or a willingness to engage in attention-seeking activities to attract the spotlight. Those affected by phaneromania may prioritize being recognized or acknowledged by others above all else and may often go to great lengths to achieve this recognition.
While the desire for fame or attention is not necessarily negative or uncommon, phaneromania is considered a disorder when it becomes an obsession or overrides one's ability to lead a balanced and healthy life. Phaneromania can be particularly detrimental to one's mental well-being, as it often leads to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and a constant need for external validation. Treatment for phaneromania may involve therapy or counseling to address underlying insecurities or self-esteem issues and to develop healthier coping mechanisms for seeking personal fulfillment.
Constant preoccupation with some external part, as plucking the beard, pulling the lobe of the ear, picking at a pimple, etc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "phaneromania" is derived from two roots: "phanero" and "mania".
The root "phanero" comes from the Greek word "phaneros", meaning visible or manifest. It is derived from the Greek verb "phainein", which means to show or to appear. "Phanero" refers to something that is evident, apparent, or easily observable.
The root "mania" also comes from Greek and refers to an intense enthusiasm or obsession for a particular thing or activity. It is often associated with an excessive or abnormal desire, passion, or compulsion.
When these two roots are combined, "phanero-" and "-mania", they form "phaneromania", which describes an obsessive enthusiasm or fixation with the visible, manifest, or apparent aspects of something.