New Books in Psychology Marc Schuilenburg, "Hysteria: Crime, Media, and Politics" (Routledge, 2021)
Dec 29, 2024
Marc Schuilenburg, a criminology professor at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, explores the pervasive nature of hysteria in modern society. He discusses how media shapes our fears surrounding crime and safety, framing public reactions historically linked to women's issues. By examining consumer behavior, he highlights the exaggerated responses to crises like pandemics and immigration. Schuilenburg argues that this cultural hysteria may hinder community engagement but can also serve as a catalyst for social change.
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Angry Emails as Inspiration
- Marc Schuilenburg's TV appearances discussing public safety often sparked angry emails accusing him of downplaying societal dangers.
- This public reaction inspired his book exploring societal hysteria.
Hysteria's Shift from Medical to Social
- Hysteria, removed from the DSM in the late 1980s, is no longer a medical diagnosis.
- It persists as a social phenomenon observable in various societal aspects.
Freudian Perspective on Hysteria
- Freud viewed hysteria as physical manifestations of repressed psychological conflicts, often stemming from traumatic experiences.
- Symptoms included paralysis, stiffness, appetite changes, mood swings, and emotional outbursts.
