Key facts
- A growing number of young people in Argentina identify as 'therians,' meaning they identify mentally, spiritually, or psychologically with non-human animals.
- The trend has become viral on social media, with the hashtag #therian exceeding 2 million posts on TikTok, and Argentina showing high engagement.
- Participants engage in gatherings where they may wear animal masks, tails, or mimic animal movements.
- Psychologists view the phenomenon as symbolic identification, with concerns arising if it becomes a deeply rooted belief leading to potential harm.
- Some participants find community and acceptance through the therian movement.
A social phenomenon known as 'therianthropy' is gaining popularity among young people in Argentina, with individuals identifying mentally, spiritually, or psychologically with non-human animals. Recent gatherings in Buenos Aires have seen teenagers, some wearing lifelike animal masks and costumes, engaging in activities that mimic animal behavior. This trend has surged on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where the #therian hashtag has garnered millions of posts, with Argentina showing significant engagement.