Experts analyze the "therian" boom and its risks: a search for identity or a social problem?
What started as a murmur in specialized forums and small digital communities ended up leaving screens to settle in squares and parks of different countries. Germany, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, United States and now Colombia have seen groups of young people appear who, amidst curious glances and growing controversy, are starring in a scene that is no longer exclusively virtual.
TL;DR
- The "therian" phenomenon, where individuals identify with animals, has become prominent on social media and in public spaces across multiple countries.
- Experts view this trend with a focus on understanding the underlying reasons, whether it's a deep-seated identity search, a coping mechanism for societal voids, or a matter of psychological well-being.
- While some behaviors have led to public concern and reports of aggression, experts emphasize distinguishing between individual identity and unacceptable conduct, stressing the importance of social responsibility.
- Anthropologically, the movement is seen as a manifestation of contemporary cultural lacks and a form of contraculture, possibly amplified by social media's immediate impact.
- The term "therian" originates from therianthropy, with historical roots in mythology, but its current digital massification is a novel aspect.