AI Article Synopsis

  • A significant outbreak of mass sociogenic illness induced by social media (MSMI) was documented in Germany from 2019 to 2021, featuring functional Tourette-like behaviors (FTB).
  • A representative survey involving 2,509 individuals revealed a prevalence rate of 0.17% for probable MSMI-FTB and 0.36% for highly likely cases, indicating the issue's relevance in public health.
  • The study emphasizes the need for better education for healthcare professionals and the public to prevent misdiagnoses and ensure effective treatment for those affected by MSMI-FTB.

Article Abstract

Starting in 2019, in Germany the first well documented outbreak of mass sociogenic illness induced by social media (mass social media-induced illness; MSMI) occurred presenting with functional Tourette-like behaviors (FTB). This study aimed to provide first data on the prevalence rate of MSMI-FTB in Germany between 2019 and 2021 in the general population. We conducted a large-scale representative population survey in cooperation with the USUMA market and social research institute. Between August and December 2021, n = 2.509 people (mean age: 49.5 years, range: 16-95 years, n = 1.276 females) were randomly selected, visited in their households, interviewed, and asked to answer for themselves, but also for close family members (n = 6.744). Thus, in total, we received answers for n = 9.253 people. Probable MSMI-FTB was found in n = 33 individuals (mean age at onset: 30.5 years, n = 8 females). Based on strict criteria, the diagnosis of MSMI-FTB was considered highly likely in 16/33 individuals (mean age at onset: 25.6 years, n = 2 females) corresponding to prevalence rates of 0.17% (CI = 0.10, CI = 0.28) and 0.36% (CI = 0.25, CI = 0.50), respectively. This is the first large-scale, population representative study investigating the prevalence of MSMI-FTB in the general population in Germany between 2019 and 2021. Based on the prevalence rates found, MSMI-FTB is highly relevant for health economy. Accordingly, we suggest educating healthcare professionals and the general public to avoid misdiagnosis and inefficient treatment.

Download full-text PDF

Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.07.011DOI Listing

Publication Analysis

Top Keywords

germany 2019
12
2019 2021
12
mass social
8
social media-induced
8
media-induced illness
8
general population
8
individuals age
8
age onset
8
prevalence rates
8
prevalence
5

Similar Publications

Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?

Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!