Klusteroid

Klusteroid is a term that has emerged in certain online communities to describe individuals who exhibit a pattern of behavior characterized by seeking out and forming relationships with others who share very specific and often niche interests or characteristics. This clustering is typically driven by a strong desire for validation, belonging, and a sense of shared identity within a particular group. Individuals who are described as klusteroids may actively filter social interactions, preferring to engage only with those who meet their stringent criteria for compatibility, sometimes to the exclusion of broader social connections.

The phenomenon is not necessarily negative, and can facilitate the formation of strong, supportive communities around shared passions. However, it can also lead to insularity and a reluctance to engage with diverse perspectives. The term itself is informal and not recognized in academic psychology, often appearing in discussions on social media and online forums where people analyze social dynamics and group formation. It highlights a modern manifestation of social grouping, influenced by the ease of finding like-minded individuals online.