Symmetromania is a noun that refers to an overwhelming obsession or excessive love for symmetry. This term is derived from the combination of two words: "symmetry," which signifies a balanced arrangement or similarity on both sides of a dividing line or point; and "mania," which denotes a deep enthusiasm or infatuation. When someone suffers from symmetromania, they experience an intense preoccupation or fixation with achieving perfect balance, harmony, or proportion in their surroundings or personal appearance.
Individuals afflicted with symmetromania display an uncontrollable compulsion to organize objects, spaces, or elements symmetrically. They are driven to arrange things in a way that reflects an ideal or flawless symmetry, often going to great lengths to achieve this aesthetic. This obsession can manifest itself in various aspects of life, such as meticulously aligning furniture, arranging items in a specific order, or adjusting their physical appearance to achieve perfect symmetry.
Symmetromania may manifest differently in each individual, but it generally involves a deep psychological need for equilibrium and order. This behavior can often interfere with daily life activities, as those with symmetromania may spend excessive amounts of time and energy arranging and rearranging objects to achieve the desired symmetrical effect.
While symmetry is generally valued and considered aesthetically pleasing, when it reaches the level of symmetromania, it can become a problematic compulsion. Treatment for symmetromania may include therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and medication, depending on the severity and impact it has on the individual's life.
