Affect Pathological

Pathological affect

Affect is a one-time episodic behavioral disorder, most often occurring in the form of primitive emotional reactions. More complex emotional reactions may occur when affect transitions into hysterical twilight delirium or trance. The will turns off, but the instinct to self-create turns on



Pathological affect (also known as psychogenic acute psychosis or stress-induced hysteria) is a short-term episode of mental disorder that occurs as a result of powerful and sudden mental trauma. Although psychogenic hysteria is one of the common syndromes among all types of mental disorders, its diagnostic value is still debated.

At the heart of psychogenic hysteria is the conflict between the experience of mental trauma and the individual’s ability to process it. It manifests itself in an increased emotional reaction to sudden events that disrupt the normal functioning of the individual. This emotional reaction can be so powerful that the body's physical response can also exceed its normal limits.

When pathological affect occurs, the individual is unable to process the current experience of the event and reacts to it in an inappropriate way. This can be expressed in fear, anger, anxiety, depression and other possible responses. These symptoms can follow each other quickly, making diagnosis and treatment difficult. Treatment for pathological affective disorder involves consultation with qualified professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and other behavioral intervention specialists for the mentally ill. They may recommend medication, relaxation exercises, lifestyle changes and psychotherapy.