Mass hysteria and perceptions of the supernatural among adolescent girl students in Taiwan.

Introduction Persons with mass hysteria present in various ways, yet the condition itself exhibits common features: sudden onset, immediate escalation and remission, and prevalence among adolescent females (Boss, 1997). Mass hysteria also occurs worldwide regardless of ethnicity, but it can be controlled effectively through early diagnosis and intervention. Pinpointing the root cause is problematic in spite of proposed theories. According to Tseng et al. (1992), who cite sexual taboos of Koro males in southern China, cultural belief systems serve as the catalyst. Boss (1997) and Wessely et al. (1990) suggest that mass hysteria is more likely a function of environmental toxicity or infectious disease, and discredit demonic possession as a significant source in contemporary Western societies. However, it remains uncertain whether or not it can be said of all others. It is agreed that people in distress tend to seek therapies and/or treatments administered in concert with cultural or personal beliefs. In Taiwan, for example, folk remedies are as popular as clinical treatment. The perception of mass hysteria is unclear since documentation is relatively non-existent. This paper presents an isolated outbreak of mass hysteria occurring in a class of 48 female students in Taiwan, and examines the situation from the perspective of both patients and families in order to contribute some understanding. In October 2000, the student identified as the dominant character of the class, suddenly and in front of her classmates, appeared to have intense difficulty breathing and swallowing, followed by dizziness, fainting, and verbal outbursts. This was followed by a similar presentation by a group of adolescent girl classmates. They were brought to the Emergency Department of a municipal hospital. During preliminary examinations, symptoms were unrelenting, so much so that each new attack would elicit similar behavior from others in the group. Mass hysteria was diagnosed. The consulting psychiatrist suggested that the girls be kept apart. Meanwhile, hospital staff and teachers provided reassurance, and sedatives were prescribed to prevent new attacks. Six girls required medical treatment. Three students remained ill for two weeks, and the others recovered within one week.