Those who are afraid of zombies are called kinemortophobics.
Understanding Kinemortophobia
Kinemortophobia is the fear of zombies or the fear of turning into a zombie. Let's break down the word:
- It comes from Greek and Latin roots:
- "Kine" (Greek): meaning "to move"
- "Mort" (Latin): meaning "dead"
- Combined: "Kinemorto" meaning "walking dead"
Essentially, kinemortophobics experience a deep fear related to zombies and the undead.
Characteristics of Kinemortophobia
While not officially recognized as a distinct phobia in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), kinemortophobia shares characteristics with other specific phobias. People experiencing this fear may exhibit:
- Anxiety when exposed to zombie-related media (movies, games, books).
- Intense fear of situations that mimic zombie scenarios (e.g., large crowds).
- Worry about the possibility of a zombie apocalypse.
- Fear of death and decay.
Is it Rational?
The rationality of kinemortophobia is subjective. The existence of zombies is currently fictional. However, the underlying fear of death, disease, and societal collapse that zombies often represent can be a source of genuine anxiety for some individuals.
Example
Imagine someone who refuses to watch zombie movies or participate in Halloween events due to extreme anxiety and fear. This person may be experiencing kinemortophobia.
