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Essay On Mass Hysteria

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Essay On Mass Hysteria
Abstract
Mass hysteria has been a social problem that has existed for many years of human history. Scientists have tried to determine what underlies what causes the widespread panic and paranoia of mass hysteria, even in cases that have occurred in recent history. An analysis on the causes of mass hysteria can enable one to recognize potential ways to solve the problems mass hysteria may materialize. Also, scientific research and examples of mass hysteria cases can help one to understand the true nature of mass hysteria. It is important to understand these events of mass hysteria and how they impact, and are in turn, impacted, by society.

What Causes Mass Hysteria?
An Analysis of the Various Causes of the “Ultimate Disease of Our …show more content…
Mass hysteria is described as an occasion in which a group of people suffer from symptoms that are unable to be logically explained (Bartholomew & Goode, 2000, para. 3). The people suffering such conditions typically blame their symptoms on the surrounding environment, physical or mental illness, or the actions of a certain group of people. Over the years, psychologists and other mental health experts have tried to determine the cause(s) of mass hysteria. When ascertaining the various causes of mass hysteria, psychologists have asked the following questions:
1. Can society impact mass hysteria?
2. Can mass media and other forms of outside attention exacerbate the symptoms of mass hysteria?
3. Do emotions or psychological illnesses have a role in the symptoms of mass hysteria?
While attempting to answer these questions, medical professionals have determined that society, mass media, emotions, and psychological illnesses all have roles in mass hysteria events.
Can society impact mass …show more content…
The attention that mass media bring to those events often increases the levels of stress of those who are suffering under the conditions of the events, causing the problem to worsen. Mass media can also make events of mass hysteria to be perceived as valid and severe to both the people who are “affected” and to those who are not. Inasmuch as to how mass media may “cause” mass hysteria, mass media expands the influence of mass hysteria events, making the spread of the “symptoms” of these events more rampant, as paranoia and “hallucinations” spread throughout the surrounding
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