What is mass hysteria in simple words?
In sociology and psychology, mass hysteria (also known as mass psychogenic illness, collective hysteria, group hysteria, or collective obsessional behavior) is a phenomenon that transmits collective illusions of threats, whether real or imaginary, through a population and society as a result of rumors and fear.
Why are females prone to mass hysteria?
Western females are also socialized to cope with stress differently than males. British psychiatrist Simon Wessely says that females are more likely to talk to each other about their symptoms, which can spread outbreaks. It is well-known that women are more likely to seek medical attention than men.
How did doctors treat female hysteria?
During the late 1800s through the early 1900s, physicians administered pelvic massages involving clitoral stimulation by early electronic vibrators as treatments for what was called female hysteria.
Can mass hysteria cause a rash?
Most cases of epidemic hysteria are characterized by symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness and lightheadedness — all of which can be produced or aggravated by anxiety and hyperventilation. But there are also several documented cases of rash as a psychogenic symptom.
What is psychogenic illness?
Mass psychogenic illness is when people in a group start feeling sick at the same time even though there is no physical or environmental reason for them to be sick. They could think they’ve been exposed to something dangerous, like a germ or a toxin ( poison ).
What is a psychogenic disease?
Psychogenic disease (or psychogenic illness) is a name given to physical illnesses that are believed to arise from emotional or mental stressors, or from psychological or psychiatric disorders. It is most commonly applied to illnesses where a physical abnormality or other biomarker has not yet been identified.
What is the most common movement disorder?
The most common movement disorders are essential tremor, restless legs syndrome, and Parkinson’s disease. Movement disorders range from mild to severely debilitating, and many have very similar symptoms.
What are common psychogenic problems?
What are the symptoms of psychogenic pain? Headaches, muscle pains, back pain, and stomach pains are some of the most common types of psychogenic pain.
Can stress cause movement disorders?
Just as stress can cause elevation in blood pressure, palpitations and tremors, stress can similarly manifest as disorders of movement.