What Is A Therian

What is a Therian?

Therians are individuals who identify as a non-human animal on a deep, psychological level. This identification can manifest in various ways, from engaging in behaviors associated with their chosen animal to experiencing shifts in their physical and mental states. The term “therian” is derived from the zoological word “Theria,” which refers to a large group of mammals, including marsupials and placental mammals.

The Therian Community

The therian community is a subculture within the broader furry fandom. While both groups share an interest in animals, therians differ in that they see their animal identity as a core part of themselves, not just a persona or roleplay. Therians often engage in behaviors and activities associated with their chosen animal, such as vocalizations, movements, and even sensory experiences.

Identifying as a Therian

Therians may identify with a specific animal species, often referred to as their “theriotype.” This identification can be profound, leading them to feel most fulfilled when engaging in behaviors characteristic of their theriotype. For instance, someone whose theriotype is a frog might feel most comfortable hopping around and croaking, while someone whose theriotype is a penguin might feel most comfortable waddling and huddling with loved ones for warmth.

Signs of Therian Identification

• Behavioral Shifts: Therians may experience shifts in their behavior, such as feeling impulses to behave like their theriotype. For example, someone whose theriotype is a parrot might lose their independent thought and start repeating others, feel like they have feathers instead of skin, or randomly start visualizing themselves on a subtropical island.
• Dream Shifts: Some therians also experience dream shifts, where they dream of being their theriotype and may even feel like they are the animal in their dreams.
• Psychological Identification: Therians often have a strong psychological identification with their theriotype, feeling like they are the animal in their daily lives, not just in their imagination.

Types of Therians

• Polytherians: These therians identify with multiple species.
• Paleotherians: These therians identify with extinct animals.

Misconceptions About Therians

• Fursonas vs. Therians: Furries create personas or costumes (called “fursonas” or “fursuits”) to connect with their chosen animal. However, these are forms of roleplaying, whereas therians see their animal identity as a core part of themselves, whether they are wearing a costume or not.
• Spirit Animals vs. Therians: Spirit animals are symbolic guides that offer protection and guidance. They are separate entities that can be communicated with. Therians, on the other hand, see their animal identity as part of themselves, not as a separate entity.

The Evolution of Therian Identification

The therian community has evolved over time, with its roots in the furry fandom. Initially, therians were seen as a subset of furries, but as the community grew, it became clear that therians had a deeper, more profound connection to their animal identities than just roleplaying or dressing up.

The Therian Experience

Therians often engage in activities that help them connect with their theriotype. These activities can include:

• Roleplaying: Therians may engage in roleplaying to experience their animal identity more fully.
• Costuming: They may wear costumes or fursuits to enhance their connection with their theriotype.
• Behavioral Mimicry: Therians may mimic behaviors associated with their theriotype, such as vocalizations or movements.
• Sensory Experiences: Some therians may seek out sensory experiences that mimic those of their theriotype, such as feeling the wind in their fur or the sensation of flight.

Therian Culture and Community

The therian community is a vibrant and supportive space for individuals who identify as non-human animals. The community provides a platform for therians to share their experiences, connect with others who understand their identity, and explore their theriotype in a safe and welcoming environment.

Community Support

• Online Forums: Therians often gather in online forums to discuss their experiences, share stories, and offer support to one another.
• Meetups and Events: In-person meetups and events allow therians to connect and engage in activities that reinforce their theriotype.
• Art and Media: The community produces art, music, and other media that celebrate and explore therian identities.

Conclusion: The Significance of Therian Identification

Therian identification is a profound and meaningful experience for many individuals. It offers a way to connect with the natural world, explore different aspects of oneself, and find a sense of belonging within a supportive community. While the therian community faces challenges and misconceptions, it remains a vital part of modern culture, providing a unique perspective on the human-animal connection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What does a therian identify as?
A: A therian identifies as a non-human animal on a deep, psychological level, often engaging in behaviors and activities associated with their chosen animal.

Q: How do therians differ from furries?
A: While both groups share an interest in animals, therians see their animal identity as a core part of themselves, whereas furries create personas or costumes (called “fursonas” or “fursuits”) to connect with their chosen animal.

Q: Can therians be professional?
A: Yes, therians can be professional, but their therian identity may not be publicly disclosed in professional settings due to societal norms and potential misconceptions.

Q: Is therian identification a mental health issue?
A: No, therian identification is not a mental health issue. It is a form of identity exploration and expression that can be a positive and fulfilling experience for many individuals.

Q: Can therians have multiple theriotypes?
A: Yes, some therians identify with multiple species, known as polytherians.

Q: Is therian identification a new concept?
A: The concept of therian identification has evolved over time, with its roots in the furry fandom. However, the term “therian” has been used in zoology for centuries, referring to a large group of mammals.

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