thériens

Theriens is a term used to describe individuals who identify as having a non-human spiritual or psychological connection to animals. This connection is often described as a feeling of being an animal in spirit, or having an animal soul or essence. Theriens do not typically believe they are physically animals, but rather that their internal identity and sense of self is aligned with a particular animal species or type. This identification can be deeply personal and varied, ranging from a single animal to multiple animal types.

The concept of therianthropy is not new, with historical and cultural precedents found in shamanistic traditions and mythology where humans were believed to transform into or embody animal spirits. Modern theriens often explore their identity through introspection, meditation, and community. The therian community is diverse, and while some may adopt animal-like behaviors or mannerisms as a form of self-expression or to honor their identity, this is not a universal practice.

Therien identity is distinct from species dysphoria, which refers to a person experiencing distress due to their biological sex differing from their gender identity. Therianthropy is generally understood as a spiritual or psychological identification rather than a medical or psychological condition. The term "therianthrope" itself derives from the Greek words "therion" meaning "beast" and "anthropos" meaning "human."