Institutional Context, Triggers and Symptoms of Mass Psychogenic Illness: A Literature-Based Content Analysis

English (OpenAlex)

Aim: This study aimed to investigate mass psychogenic illness (MPI) across various institutional settings worldwide, identifying its triggering factors and symptom profiles. Additionally, it sought to analyze the organizational and psychosocial factors contributing to MPI outbreaks and to propose recommendations for their prevention. Method: The research was based on a dataset comprising peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2025, written in English and documenting MPI cases within specific institutional contexts. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Employing qualitative content analysis, 14 case studies were evaluated through descriptive and thematic approaches, focusing on institutional categories, triggering factors and symptom profiles. Results: The analysis revealed that 85.7% (12/14) of MPI cases occurred in school settings, while 7.1% (1/14) was reported to occur in a hospital and 7.1% (1/14) in an office environment. In schools, emotional vulnerability among adolescents, academic stress, misinformation dissemination and group interactions emerged as primary triggers. In contrast, environmental perceptions and dramatic interventions were prominent in hospital and office cases. The most frequently reported physical symptoms included nausea, headaches and dizziness, while psychical symptoms such as anxiety and panic were less common. Notably, MPI cases were more prevalent among female students. Conclusion: MPI is predominantly observed in school environments, driven by stress, misinformation and social contagion. Being less frequent in adult-oriented settings, its presence reflects distinct dynamics rather than immunity. The study highlights the critical role of organizational culture and leadership in preventing MPI. Strengthening psychosocial support systems, implementing stress management and fostering transparent communication within institutions can mitigate MPI risks.