Latah
Latah (pronounced: la-tah) is a culture-bound syndrome predominantly found in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia. The term 'Latah' is derived from the Malay language, meaning 'nervous disease'.
Definition
Latah is characterized by an exaggerated startle response, often followed by echopraxia (the involuntary repetition of another person's actions), echolalia (the involuntary repetition of another person's speech), and sometimes trance states or dissociative behavior.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of Latah is a heightened startle response. This can be triggered by a sudden fright, such as a loud noise or unexpected touch. Following the startle, individuals may exhibit echopraxia, echolalia, or both. In some cases, individuals may enter a trance-like state or exhibit dissociative behavior, appearing detached from their surroundings or themselves.
Causes
The exact cause of Latah is unknown. However, it is believed to be a psychogenic condition, meaning it is psychological in origin rather than physical. Some researchers suggest that it may be related to hypersensitivity or anxiety disorders.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for Latah. Management typically involves avoiding triggers that may cause a startle response. In some cases, psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy may be beneficial.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Latah
- Wikipedia's article - Latah
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