Levysosia

Levysosia is a hypothetical psychological phenomenon that describes a state of heightened empathy and emotional connection to fictional characters. Individuals experiencing levysosia may feel intense sadness, joy, or anger in response to the events and struggles of characters in books, movies, video games, or other narrative media. This emotional resonance can be so profound that it significantly impacts their own mood and well-being, sometimes to the point of affecting their daily lives.

The term "levysosia" is not a formally recognized psychological disorder in current diagnostic manuals. It is an informal term used to describe a specific and often intense form of emotional engagement with fictional narratives. While empathy towards fictional characters is a common human experience, levysosia suggests a level of emotional investment that is particularly strong and pervasive.

The underlying causes of levysosia are not well-understood, as it is not a studied clinical condition. However, it is theorized that it may be related to individual differences in emotional regulation, cognitive empathy, and a predisposition towards imaginative immersion. Factors such as a person's personal experiences, their susceptibility to emotional contagion, and the quality of their engagement with the narrative could all play a role. While not pathological, prolonged or overwhelming emotional responses to fictional events might be a point of personal reflection for individuals experiencing them.