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Mass hysteria, also known as mass psychogenic illness, refers to a phenomenon where a group of people exhibit similar unusual behaviors, thoughts, and symptoms without any underlying medical cause.

What is Mass Hysteria?

Mass hysteria involves the rapid spread of physical symptoms or psychological distress among a group of people, often triggered by fear or anxiety. It is considered a type of conversion disorder, where mental stress is converted into physical symptoms. Sociologically, it falls under collective behavior, involving spontaneous actions influenced by others in the group. There are two primary types:

Mass Anxiety Hysteria

Often occurring in close-knit, isolated groups, this type involves sudden anxiety and symptoms like chest pain and dizziness, which resolve quickly. These symptoms often include chest pain, dizziness, headaches, and fainting. 

Mass Motor Hysteria

Typically found in people under long-term stress, this type includes motor symptoms like shaking and twitching, spreading gradually and lingering for weeks. 

Additionally, symptoms can be related to the specific fear within the group, such as rashes or breathing difficulties if a toxic exposure is believed.

Causes of Mass Hysteria

Several theories suggest why mass hysteria occurs, though no definitive cause is known:

Extreme Anxiety and Stress

Both sudden and prolonged stress can trigger mass hysteria. Historical and present-day evidence shows stress as a key factor. Potential triggers include strict school environments, community disasters, tense relationships, isolated communities with strict religious beliefs, and pandemics.

The Nocebo Effect

The nocebo effect is where people develop symptoms because they expect negative outcomes. Fear and anxiety can manifest physical symptoms simply due to the belief in a threat.

'Stage Fright'

Sudden stress or the anticipation of an unwanted event can cause anxiety symptoms. These symptoms might also be a way to unconsciously avoid the stressful situation.