possessus

Possessus is a relatively new term used primarily in speculative fiction and theoretical discussion to denote a state in which a subject experiences influence or control by an external consciousness or entity. It is a neologism rather than a widely codified concept, and there is no single accepted definition across disciplines.

The term is typically treated as a constructed word rather than a traditional linguistic entry, and its etymology is commonly traced to possessus, a Latin-root concept associated with possession, though actual scholarly consensus on the derivation varies.

In fiction, possessus is used to describe phenomena where a character's body or mind is controlled by another consciousness, or where the boundaries of self and other become porous. Authors may distinguish temporary possession from enduring possession by duration, memory sharing, or changes in behavior and identity.

In game design and discussions of narrative mechanics, possessus can refer to a state or ability that allows an entity to take temporary control of another character, often under constraints such as limited duration, consent, or resource costs.

Conceptually, scholars and writers use possessus to explore questions about agency, autonomy, and the ethics of external influence. Some critiques emphasize that possession motifs can enable empathy or critique power dynamics, while others caution against conflating fictional ideas with real psychological experiences.

See also: possession, mind control, body-snatching, spiritual possession.