Teenagers in Argentina express identification with animals in viral phenomenon
A square in Buenos Aires became the stage for a peculiar meeting for teenagers on February 22, 2026. Young people, some wearing realistic animal masks, like Sofía, who moved like a beagle, and Aguara, 15 years old, who simulated the jumps of a Belgian dog, gathered. Other participants, dressed as felines and foxes, preferred to be high up in the trees, observing the environment.
The event was one of the most recent gatherings of “therians”, people who identify mentally, spiritually or psychologically with non-human beings. This movement went viral on Argentine social networks, especially on TikTok, where #therian accumulated more than 2 million posts. Argentina stands out as a leader in engagement in Latin America in this phenomenon. The rapid rise has generated different responses, from humor and confusion to outrage.
With the expansion of the movement, psychology professionals are beginning to investigate the phenomenon, seeking to understand its impact and position in society.
More on this story: Silence in groups: what psychology reveals about those who speak little and how to interact
Aguara, who sees herself as a Belgian Malinois and estimates her age at two dog years and two months, describes herself as an average teenager.
“I wake up like a normal person and I live my life like a normal person,” he said. “I just have moments when I like being a dog.”
On the same topic: Scientists’ accidental discovery reveals hidden rule of human nature with surprising impacts
See Also
Valve store cuts prices and offers PC catalog with 85% discounts
Strong coastal tremor hits Flores Island and triggers emergency sirens in Indonesia
7.7 magnitude earthquake shakes Indonesia and triggers tsunami warning in the east of the country
As leader of her “group”, Aguara, the name by which she is known, has more than 125 thousand followers on TikTok and promotes periodic meetings in Buenos Aires.
At the same meeting, Aru, 16 years old, who wore a seal mask, explained that he was part of the “otherpaw” side of the Terians. This group includes people who wear masks and tails or move around on all fours just for leisure. “It’s not necessarily about identifying as an animal,” Aru said.
Aru attributes the popularity of the Therian trend in Argentina to the country’s “freedom” climate. For many young Argentines, the movement has become a vital community, offering a space for genuine acceptance.
Learn more: Positive emotions overcome shame in creating new habits
How do psychologists view young people’s identification with animals?
Débora Pedace, psychologist and director of the Comprehensive Therapeutic Center of Buenos Aires, observed that the phenomenon provokes a range of reactions, including perplexity, humor and even irritation.
“From a psychological point of view, it’s a symbolic identification with an animal,” Pedace said. The expert added that the situation becomes “pathological or alarming when it becomes a deeply rooted belief and the person completely assumes the role of the animal, which can lead to self-mutilation or hurting other people.”
