Key facts
- A growing number of young people in Argentina identify as non-human animals, a phenomenon called 'therianthropy'.
- The trend has become viral on social media, particularly TikTok, with Argentina leading engagement in Latin America.
A growing trend of 'therians' in Argentina sees young people identifying as non-human animals, leading to social media virality and psychological analysis. The phenomenon has sparked a range of reactions, from amusement to concern.
This phenomenon highlights evolving youth identity expression and the role of social media in amplifying subcultures, prompting psychological analysis and public discourse on the boundaries of self-identification and mental well-being.
A growing number of young people in Argentina are identifying as non-human animals, a phenomenon known as 'therianthropy'. This trend has gained significant traction on social media platforms like TikTok, where the hashtag #therian has surpassed 2 million posts, with Argentina leading engagement in Latin America.
Recent gatherings in Buenos Aires have seen teenagers wearing lifelike animal masks and imitating animal behaviors, such as running on all fours or perching in trees. Participants like Aguara, who identifies as a Belgian Malinois, describe having moments where they feel a strong connection to their animal identity while otherwise living normal lives. Others, like Aru, identify with the 'otherpaw' branch, engaging in animalistic behaviors for enjoyment rather than deep identification.
Psychologists are analyzing the trend, with Débora Pedace of the Integral Therapeutic Center in Buenos Aires stating that it represents a symbolic identification with animals. She noted that the phenomenon becomes concerning only if it evolves into a deeply rooted belief leading to potential self-harm or harm to others. Some participants view the therian movement as providing a vital sense of community and acceptance in a relatively free environment.
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