lycanthropy

Lycanthropy is a psychological condition where a person believes they can transform into a wolf or other similar creature, often influenced by myth and folklore. Historically, it was considered a mental disorder, sometimes linked to delusions, hallucinations, or intense fantasies involving animal transformation. While rooted in ancient stories, modern understanding sees it as a rare psychiatric phenomenon or a metaphor for intense emotional states. It does not involve actual physical transformation but reflects a person's disturbed perception of reality or deep connection to animalistic aspects of their personality.