2023-07-11 13:38:13
July 11, 2023
Nausea, dizziness, vomiting and even hallucinations are no more and no less the symptoms associated with Paris syndrome. An “evil” that affects some tourists when they arrive in the capital. Explanations.
An increase in heart rate, nausea, dizziness and even more intense vomiting and episodes of hallucination reflect this psychological state summed up by the expression “Paris Syndrome”. But what is it exactly?
The Chinese and the Japanese particularly exposed
Admittedly, this phenomenon is not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). But it does exist. According to Professor Mathieu Deflem, sociologist at the University of South Carolina, this syndrome would concern more the Asian population.
How to explain it? By the disappointment, even the despair linked to the gap between an idealized and fictionalized city (represented in certain films like the fabulous destiny of Amelie Poulain or the series Emily in Paris), and reality (public transport, the condition of certain streets, etc.). This discrepancy between dream and reality will then be expressed by a real cultural shock, and this in a way ” visceral ».
Extreme culture shock
The symptoms clearly relate to those of a generalized anxiety disorder. In some cases, the visitor can go so far as to experience ” feelings of disorientation, depression, irritability, and physical illness “, adds Professor Deflem.
In the Japanese population, cases of Paris syndrome are frequent. They have even been described by a Japanese psychiatrist residing in Paris, Hiroaki Ota. What stands out regarding his work? In total, ” 57% of psychiatric problems revealed while traveling among Japanese tourists in Europe occurred in France, particularly in Paris. »
As a result of culture shock and social malaise, some tourists adopt behaviors antisocial: the person locks himself in his apartment or in his hotel room; she can no longer take public transport, for example. This behavior can be accompanied by an anguish felt in relation to the gaze of others (including the French), imaginary and critical of him. It can be significant in some cases: hallucinations and the desire for death may be present. »
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