Latah

Latah is a condition of hyperstartling found in certain parts of the world that is commonly considered a culture-specific syndrome. It is also the name for those with the condition, which is found mainly in adult women. The afflicted have a severe reaction to being surprised in which they lose control of their behavior, mimic the speech and actions of those around them and sometimes obey any commands given them. Latahs are generally not considered responsible for their actions during these episodes.

Although the word latah is of Middle Eastern origin, it is also used in Southeast Asia. Similar conditions have been recorded within other cultures and locations, such as among French-Canadian lumberjacks in Maine (Jumping Frenchmen of Maine), the Ainu of Japan (imu) and Siberia (miryachit); however, the connection between these syndromes has been controversial.^[1]

Latahs are a recurring theme in William S. Burroughs' writings.

[edit] See also

• Hyperekplexia

[edit] References

[edit] External links

• Introduction to Culture-Bound Syndromes, by Ronald C. Simons, Psychiatric Times, November 2001, Vol. XVIII, Issue 11
• Skeptical Inquirer - Culture-bound syndromes as fakery

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