Mass formation psychosis

Mass formation psychosis is a psychological phenomenon described by Professor Mattias Desmet, a clinical psychologist from Ghent University in Belgium. It refers to a collective mental state where people become hypnotized by a narrative, often driven by anxiety and a sense of uncertainty. This phenomenon can occur when a group of people is exposed to a shared threat or uncertainty, leading to a collective desire for security and a sense of belonging.

Characteristics of Mass Formation Psychosis

According to Desmet, mass formation psychosis is characterized by four key conditions:

Free-floating anxiety: A sense of uncertainty and anxiety that is not tied to a specific object or event.
Decoupling: A feeling of disconnection from others and a sense of isolation.
Focus on a single point: A collective attention is focused on a single issue or narrative, often driven by a charismatic leader or event.
Hypnotic trance-like state: The collective attention is so focused that it becomes a trance-like state, where people become disconnected from their own thoughts and feelings.
Examples of Mass Formation Psychosis

Desmet has applied the concept of mass formation psychosis to various historical events, including the rise of Nazi Germany and the COVID-19 pandemic. He argues that the pandemic has created a sense of free-floating anxiety, decoupling people from each other, and focusing their attention on a single narrative (e.g., the need for vaccines and lockdowns).

Criticisms and Controversies

Some critics have argued that the concept of mass formation psychosis is not a recognized psychiatric diagnosis and is being misused to describe political opponents or those who hold differing views. Others have questioned the scientific basis of Desmet’s claims and the lack of empirical evidence to support the concept.

Conclusion

Mass formation psychosis is a complex psychological phenomenon that can occur when a group of people is exposed to a shared threat or uncertainty. While the concept has been applied to various historical events, its scientific validity and applicability are still debated. As with any psychological phenomenon, it is essential to approach the concept with a critical and nuanced understanding of its limitations and potential biases.

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Many Blessings,
CrystalRiver