science
Researchers Develop Atimiaphobia Scale to Measure Fear of Honor Loss in Collectivistic Cultures
Researchers have introduced the term atimiaphobia to describe an intense fear of losing honor or being labeled shameless, according to a new study. The condition, rooted in collectivistic cultures, may lead to anxiety, depression and difficulties in relationships. The study involved participants from Pakistan and was published in the PsyCh Journal.
The TimesAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Scientists have coined the term atimiaphobia to refer to the fear of losing honor or being labeled shameless in social situations, The Times reported. A study found that people with atimiaphobia could find it harder to maintain healthy relationships and navigate social situations due to fear of negative judgment.
Researchers from Pakistan, Tunisia, Jordan, Germany and Bahrain conducted the study, noting that some cultures are more collectivistic and honor-based than others.
In collectivistic cultures, individual identity is defined through one's standing within the group, with honor as the reward for meeting communal expectations and shame as the penalty for failing them. Waqar Husain of Comsats University Islamabad led the research. The study was published in the PsyCh Journal.
The study characterized atimiaphobia as a newly recognized psychological condition involving intense fear of losing honor or being labeled shameless, rooted in honor cultures and shame societies. Feelings of honor are based on self-worth and social appraisal, where respect from others enhances self-esteem leading to pride, while dishonor evokes shame and rage.
Honor can be a shared family asset that can be lost and is difficult to regain.
In some cases, restoration of honor may involve extreme measures including abuse and murder, as those who do not act against affronts are seen as weak and guilty. From April 2023 to April 2024, 2,755 honor-based abuse-related offences were recorded by police in England and Wales. The study involved 1,232 participants from Islamabad in Pakistan.
