The Rise of ‘Therians’: Exploring a Growing Identity and the Concerns It Raises
A burgeoning online community identifies as non-human animals, sparking both fascination and controversy. Reports of public disturbances and questions about mental health are fueling a wider debate about identity, self-expression, and the boundaries of reality.
Understanding the Therian Community
The term “therian” – derived from the Greek word for animal – refers to individuals who identify as non-human animals on a deeply personal level. This isn’t about cosplay or role-playing; therians describe a profound, innate sense of being connected to a specific animal or animals. This connection manifests in various ways, including strong identification with an animal’s behaviors, instincts, and even physical sensations. The phenomenon, while gaining recent visibility, has roots stretching back decades, evolving alongside the internet and online communities.
Unlike otherkin – a broader category encompassing those who identify as mythical creatures or non-corporeal beings – therians specifically identify with existing animal species. A person might identify as a wolf, a cat, a bird, or even a reptile. This identification isn’t necessarily tied to a desire to physically become the animal, but rather a feeling of inherent animalistic nature. Infobae provides a detailed overview of the trend’s growth on social media.
The online spaces where therians congregate – platforms like Discord, Reddit, and TikTok – provide a sense of community and validation. These platforms allow individuals to share their experiences, discuss their identities, and offer support to one another. However, this online visibility has also brought increased scrutiny and, in some cases, negative attention.
Reports from Colombia, as highlighted by The Colombian, detail instances of public disturbances attributed to therians, including reports of “howling” in public spaces and even alleged biting incidents. These incidents have led to complaints from residents and raised concerns about public safety.
What drives someone to identify so strongly with an animal? Psychologists suggest a variety of potential factors, including a search for identity, a desire for connection with nature, and a way to cope with feelings of alienation or disconnect. It’s important to note that identifying as a therian is not considered a mental illness in itself, but it can sometimes be associated with underlying mental health conditions.
Do you think the increasing visibility of online communities like the therian community is a positive or negative development? And how should society respond to individuals who identify in ways that challenge traditional norms?
Frequently Asked Questions About Therianthropy
Here are some common questions about therians and the therian community:
What exactly does it mean to identify as a therian?
Identifying as a therian means experiencing a deep, innate connection to a non-human animal. This isn’t a choice, but rather a fundamental aspect of one’s identity.
Is therianthropy a mental illness?
No, therianthropy itself is not considered a mental illness. However, it can sometimes co-occur with other mental health conditions, and individuals experiencing distress should seek professional help.
Are therians dangerous?
The vast majority of therians are not dangerous. Reports of aggressive behavior are rare and often sensationalized. Like any population group, there may be individuals who engage in harmful actions, but this is not representative of the community as a whole.
How is being a therian different from being a furry?
While there can be overlap, being a therian is distinct from being a furry. Furries are interested in anthropomorphic animals (animals with human characteristics) as a hobby or form of artistic expression. Therians experience a personal, internal identification with a specific animal.
Where can I learn more about the therian community?
Numerous online resources are available, including websites, forums, and social media groups dedicated to therianthropy. The Financier offers a good starting point for understanding the subculture.
The phenomenon of therianthropy presents a complex and evolving challenge to our understanding of identity and self-perception. As this community continues to grow and gain visibility, it’s essential to approach the topic with empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to respectful dialogue.
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