A growing number of teenagers in Buenos Aires are identifying as “therians,” individuals who say they connect mentally or spiritually with non-human animals.
Therian trend: Masked youth identifying as animals gather in Buenos Aires
Viral trend in Argentina sees masked young people identifying as animals gather in Buenos Aires park
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AP Photo
Gatherings in public parks show participants wearing animal masks, moving on all fours, or forming social “packs.”
The trend has surged on TikTok, where #therian has surpassed 2 million posts, with Argentina leading engagement in Latin America.
While some participants describe it as identity-based, others see it as performance or enjoyment.
The movement has sparked debate online, with psychologists weighing in on its social impact.