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Mass in an Culture

Author

Listed:
  • Yousreya Amin

    (Al-Ain Hospital, Ministry of Health, UAE)

  • Emad Hamdi

    (Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, UAE University)

  • Valsamma Eapen

    (Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, UAE University)

Abstract

In this report we describe the circumstances surrounding an outbreak of mass hysteria among first year female university students. The outbreak was precipitated by a state of panic over the possibility of a fire which turned out to be harmless fumes from a locally used burning perfume. Twenty-three cases presented to the emergency room with symptoms of respiratory distress associated with marked emotional reactions. The outbreak was controlled by separating the patients, and the lack of media coverage facilitated this process. Cases with persistent and severe symptoms were those having physical and psychological problems prior to the occurrence of the outbreak. Individual vulnerability factors deserve special consideration in the management of mass hysteria since they are likely to influence the response to treatment.

Suggested Citation

  • Yousreya Amin & Emad Hamdi & Valsamma Eapen, 1997. "Mass in an Culture," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 43(4), pages 303-306, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:43:y:1997:i:4:p:303-306
    DOI: 10.1177/002076409704300408
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