petso

Petso is a term that has emerged in certain online communities and refers to the practice of adopting or identifying with a fictional animal character, often referred to as a "fursona," and exhibiting behaviors or adopting mannerisms associated with that character. This can range from purely internal identification to more outward expressions, such as creating art, writing stories, or engaging in role-playing. The term itself is a portmanteau of "pet" and "person," highlighting the fusion of animalistic traits with human identity.

The practice is often associated with the furry fandom, a subculture interested in anthropomorphic animal characters. Within this context, a fursona is a personal representation or avatar, typically an animal with human characteristics. Petso can be seen as an extension of this, where the individual deeply embodies their fursona, sometimes to the point of internalizing or performing aspects of the character's persona in their daily life.

It is important to note that the understanding and expression of "petso" can vary significantly among individuals. For some, it is a form of creative expression and escapism, while for others, it may represent a deeper psychological connection or a way of exploring identity. The term is not widely recognized outside of specific online circles and is not a clinically defined psychological phenomenon.