Frente a Frente - Fenómeno "Therian": ¿identidad o problema social? - Viernes 20 de Febrero de 2026

Discussion on Digital Platforms and Emerging Identities

Introduction to the Topic

• The speaker emphasizes that the program is not trivial, highlighting the evolution of digital platforms over decades.

• As a parent or grandparent, there is a desire to understand these developments to guide children effectively.

Presentation of Guests

• Cristi Alvarez, the speaker's niece, is introduced along with Juan Diego Lacayo and Guarren Ochoa for their insights on public perceptions.

• Cristi mentions an upcoming event related to "Terians" in Comayagua, Honduras, indicating growing interest in this community.

Emergence of Terrian Communities

• Reports suggest that various digital media are showcasing communities of Terians in Honduras, with potential official gatherings planned.

• International coverage highlights similar events elsewhere, such as a gathering in Quito reported by Ecuadorian media.

Public Reactions and Regulations

• Some businesses are prohibiting entry to individuals identifying as Terians while others embrace them; for example, a café in Monterrey welcomes Terians with special offerings.

• A case involving a man identifying as "terian rat" who was arrested for theft raises concerns about criminal behavior associated with this identity.

Legislative Developments

• A proposed "Terian Law" aims to protect young people from bullying based on their identity in Nuevo León, Mexico; this reflects broader societal implications of such identities.

• The discussion suggests that what may seem trivial can lead to significant social changes and legal considerations over time.

Psychological Perspectives on Identity

Clarification of Identity Issues

• Guarren Ochoa begins discussing the psychological aspects surrounding the phenomenon of Terians and its classification within mental health frameworks.

Diagnostic Criteria Discussion

• The DSM-5 does not classify Terian identity as a specific diagnosis; it’s essential to differentiate between subjective experiences and clinical diagnoses like lycanthropy or somatopathy which are rare cases within psychotic spectrums.

Cultural Phenomena and Youth Identity

Understanding Lycanthropy and Cultural Identity

• The speaker discusses the historical context of lycanthropy, noting that while there are many recorded cases over the last century, it lacks a specific clinical diagnosis. Instead, symptoms may include delusional thoughts and social adaptation issues.

• Emphasizing that this is fundamentally a youth identity issue, the speaker argues that it should be viewed as a cultural phenomenon rather than strictly a clinical one. This perspective encourages re-framing how we understand these identities.

Historical Context of Subcultures

• The speaker highlights that youth subcultures like punk and emo have existed historically, suggesting they manifest in various forms over time. These groups often express unique cultural preferences online.

• An example is given regarding fandom culture surrounding long-standing series like Star Trek, where fans identify with characters and engage in community activities globally.

Prevalence of Non-Human Animal Identification

• The discussion shifts to the prevalence of individuals identifying with non-human animals within certain communities. While some studies exist on this topic, they indicate low identification rates (one or two digits).

• The speaker asserts that this cultural phenomenon has always existed but is amplified by modern media. They argue against stigmatizing youth for exploring their identities during adolescence.

Societal Pressures on Youth

• Acknowledging societal pressures faced by adults—such as financial responsibilities—the speaker notes adolescents often explore their identities amidst these challenges, sometimes stemming from difficult life experiences.

• Reflecting on cultural practices during Lent in Honduras, the speaker critiques societal lack of compassion towards youth exploring their identities, emphasizing the importance of understanding rather than stigmatizing such expressions.

Reflection on Past Identities

• The conversation touches upon how society tends to forget its own past manifestations of identity during adolescence. The speaker calls for empathy towards young people navigating similar paths today.

• They highlight how previous generations also had their own forms of expression (e.g., music genres), which were once criticized but are now accepted as part of adult life.

Conclusion: Adult-Centric Perspectives

• Concluding remarks focus on adult-centric views that often dismiss youthful expressions as problematic without recognizing them as part of normal development.

• The speaker emphasizes the need for society to differentiate between transient youth identity exploration and actual clinical issues while fostering understanding rather than judgment.

Discussion on Societal Perceptions and Mental Health

Stigmatization of Differences

• The speaker reflects on historical stigmatization, noting that individuals with differences, such as short stature, were often ridiculed or marginalized in society.

• This societal behavior is questioned, highlighting the harm it causes and its connection to broader social issues like suicidal behavior.

Suicide Statistics and Social Phenomena

• According to the World Health Organization, only 1% of the global population commits suicide annually, which translates to one in ten thousand people—a rare phenomenon given human instinct for self-preservation.

• The speaker compares this rarity to physical anomalies (e.g., height), emphasizing that while some differences are uncommon, they still exist within society.

Cultural Perspectives on Identity

• A discussion arises about cultural reactions to identity and how these reflect historical patterns of human behavior.

• Juan Diego Lacayo is introduced as a participant who critiques adult-centric views on societal direction and highlights significant social disintegration.

Ideological Influences on Youth

• The conversation shifts towards the negative impacts of ideological influences on youth and childhood development.

• The speaker expresses concern over parents' roles in allowing harmful ideologies to take root in their children's lives, exacerbated by social media.

Autoperception and Identity Crisis

• There’s a critique of gender ideology that allows individuals to self-identify beyond biological realities; this raises questions about boundaries in self-perception.

• The merging of consumerism with identity concepts complicates young people's understanding of themselves amidst familial disconnection.

Parental Responsibility and Education

• Emphasis is placed on parental responsibility in guiding children through complex identity issues while balancing sensitivity with reality.

• An example illustrates the absurdity of extreme self-identification (e.g., an adult identifying as a dog), stressing the need for realistic boundaries in education regarding identity.

Conclusion: Navigating Acceptance vs. Reality

• The speaker advocates for compassion but insists that socially unacceptable behaviors should not be legitimized based solely on personal perception.

• A call for critical thinking around major life decisions emphasizes that individuals may not always make sound choices regarding their identities.

Discussion on Identity and Parental Responsibility

The Nature of Identity

• The speaker emphasizes that many aspects of a person's identity, such as sex, height, and parentage, are not chosen by the individual. This raises questions about the nature of self-identification.

• There is a concern regarding social groups that reinforce certain ideologies without familial support, leading individuals to adopt identities based on external validation rather than personal truth.

Issues with Self-Identification

• A critical viewpoint is presented on adults identifying as children and participating in spaces meant for minors, highlighting potential risks associated with this belief system.

• The speaker argues that allowing such self-perceptions in educational settings distorts young minds and undermines traditional parental guidance.

Social Phenomena vs. Trends

• The speaker distinguishes between social phenomena (which have broader implications across various fields) and trends (which are transient), suggesting that current identity movements may be more akin to fashion than deep-rooted societal changes.

• They argue against labeling these movements as legitimate social phenomena due to their lack of permanence compared to established issues like migration or human trafficking.

Parental Influence and Social Orientation

• The role of parents is highlighted as crucial; if they do not model appropriate behavior, children may struggle with identity formation amidst societal pressures.

• References are made to psychological theories regarding learning from adult models, indicating a need for responsible parenting in shaping children's understanding of identity.

Technology's Role in Shaping Trends

• The impact of technology on cultural trends is discussed, noting how platforms can amplify certain identities while potentially overshadowing others.

• Concerns are raised about reliance on technology for education and communication, which may lead to superficial understandings of complex issues like identity.

Mental Health Considerations

• Finally, the discussion touches upon mental health diagnoses related to identity issues but stresses the importance of distinguishing between genuine psychological conditions and socially constructed identities.

Discussion on Animal Behavior and Cultural Symbolism

The Dark Side of Human-Animal Interaction

• Discussion on disturbing behaviors in urban areas, including the concept of deriving pleasure from violence against animals.

• Reference to "Tarzan" as a cultural icon, highlighting how urban youth may imitate such figures, reflecting a disconnect with nature.

Dignity and Symbolism in Animal Care

• Critique of modern attitudes towards animal care; questioning the dignity afforded to pets versus their natural state.

• Exploration of historical and cultural significance of animals in various cultures (Aztec, Maya), emphasizing their symbolic roles.

Cultural Traditions and Artistic Expression

• Mention of alebrijes as a cultural phenomenon originating from an artist's dream, linking art to tradition and identity.

• Discussion on the lack of awareness among adolescents regarding historical animal symbolism within Mayan culture.

Identity Seeking Among Youth

• Examination of collective behavior among adolescents seeking identity through trends that often overlook environmental respect.

• Commentary on societal shifts away from nurturing nature towards artificial substitutes, indicating a loss of connection with the environment.

Family Dynamics and Responsibility

• Personal anecdote about children wanting pets for Christmas; highlights family discussions around pet ownership responsibilities.

• Reflection on rising costs associated with pet care compared to traditional healthcare expenses for children.

Technology's Role in Parenting Challenges

• Critique of parental responsibility regarding children's access to technology; emphasizes changing parenting methods over generations.

• Discussion about discipline challenges faced by parents today due to technology's influence on youth behavior.

Human Superiority Debate

• Concluding thoughts on human dominion over nature; asserts that humans are meant to govern Earth, contrasting this view with concerns for animal rights.

Discussion on Human Dignity and Animal Rights

The Role of Humans in Nature

• The speaker emphasizes that humans, created in the image of God, should not degrade themselves to mere animals or nature.

• While acknowledging the dignity of animals, the speaker argues that they do not possess human rights or responsibilities due to their lack of reason.

Concerns About Transhumanism

• There is a warning against viewing pets as children (e.g., "perrijos"), which reflects a dangerous trend among youth.

• A debate arises about whether elevating animal status undermines human dignity; contrasting views are presented regarding cultural shifts and societal norms.

Parental Responsibility and Social Behavior

• The discussion highlights parental responsibility for children's behavior, suggesting that neglect leads to social issues.

• Comments from users indicate a belief that societal problems stem from poor parenting and recent political policies.

Emerging Social Phenomena

• Users discuss how young people’s behaviors reflect deeper issues like lack of love and values, attributing it to materialism over spiritual guidance.

• Observations are made about adults adopting pet-like behaviors, indicating a troubling shift in identity and lifestyle choices.

Ideological Conflicts and Societal Implications

• A call for stricter upbringing methods is made; some argue against modern ideologies perceived as detrimental to human development.

• The conversation touches on non-human rights movements, questioning their implications for human identity and societal structure.

Freedom vs. Libertinage

• Discussions highlight the need for balance between rights and responsibilities; true freedom involves contributing positively to society rather than acting irresponsibly.

• Concerns are raised about social trends being misinterpreted as rebellion against traditional values, leading to confusion over personal identity.

Conclusion on Societal Trends

• The dialogue concludes with reflections on how these emerging identities may affect family dynamics and national cohesion.

• Acknowledgment is made that while these topics are significant, there are other pressing issues within society deserving attention.

Philosophical and Sociological Insights in Honduran Debates

The Importance of Diverse Perspectives

• The speaker acknowledges the presence of philosophical, sociological, psychological, and anthropological concepts in today's discussions, which are often absent in typical debates in Honduras.

• Emphasizes that fundamental lessons can be drawn from these discussions for human coexistence and societal living.

• Introduces Guarren Ochoa to analyze phenomena through scientific lenses, highlighting three types of realities: objective, subjective, and intersubjective.

Understanding Different Realities

Objective Reality

• Objective reality is defined as facts that exist independently of belief; for example, the gravitational field of Earth remains true regardless of personal belief.

Subjective Reality

• Subjective realities pertain to individual feelings or perceptions (e.g., feeling attractive or intelligent), which shape one's internal experience but may not reflect external truths.

Intersubjective Reality

• Intersubjective realities are collective beliefs or constructs shared within a society (e.g., language and money), which hold power due to widespread acceptance despite being artificial.

Cultural Constructs and Identity

• Language serves as an example of intersubjectivity; different cultures assign gender to nouns differently (e.g., "car" in Spanish vs. French).

• Money is discussed as a powerful intersubjective belief system; it has no intrinsic value but is accepted due to collective agreement on its worth.

Historical Contextualization

• The speaker reflects on historical identity constructs in Honduras, noting how people identified differently 20 years ago compared to today amidst territorial conflicts with El Salvador.

Implications for Social Dynamics

• Questions arise about how current identities might be perceived by past generations if they could witness present-day social constructs.

• Discusses the significance of cultural identities over time and their impact on social dynamics without invalidating individuals' lived experiences.

Discussion on Social Constructs and Identity

The Nature of Relationships in Organizations

• The speaker questions the familial nature of relationships within a company, suggesting that such perceptions may be artificially constructed.

• There is a caution against conflating symbolism with reality, particularly in structured environments like the military or police.

Critique of Wealth and Privilege

• Reference to Ricardo Salinas Pliego, a wealthy individual accused of avoiding tax responsibilities for 16 years, highlighting systemic privilege among the rich.

• The speaker emphasizes that while ordinary citizens pay significant taxes (30%-40%), wealthy individuals often evade their obligations.

Societal Issues and Media Influence

• Discussion on how social media amplifies certain societal phenomena, making them appear more prevalent than they are; this amplification can lead to transient trends.

• Acknowledgment that real-life consequences await adolescents who engage with these viral trends, contrasting online behavior with actual life challenges.

Misinterpretation of Statistical Data

• Clarification that anecdotal cases should not be confused with statistical norms; unique instances do not represent broader societal issues.

• The speaker critiques how certain religious experiences are interpreted differently from psychological conditions like psychosis.

Humanization vs. Dehumanization

• A warning against the trend of humanizing animals while dehumanizing people; this reflects broader societal issues where empathy is misallocated.

• An example drawn from current events (e.g., Gaza conflict), illustrating how language can dehumanize groups based on perceived threats or differences.

Cultural Practices and Respect for Boundaries

• Discussion about cultural identity versus individual behavior; sports fans' identities shouldn't impose respect demands on others.

• Emphasis on maintaining boundaries regarding acceptable behaviors in society; practices deemed extreme or irrational should not be normalized.

Concerns Over Identity and Mental Health

The Dangers of Self-Identification

• The speaker expresses concern over allowing children to self-identify in ways that may lead to harmful decisions, such as altering healthy body parts.

• There is a fear that societal acceptance of extreme self-identification could lead to dangerous behaviors, including surgeries to resemble animals.

Parental Rights and Societal Responsibility

• Emphasizes the importance of parental rights in choosing their children's education and protecting them from ideologies perceived as harmful.

• Critiques the cultural shift towards accepting radical self-identification without questioning its implications on mental health.

Cultural Comparisons and Ideological Conflicts

• Discusses how different cultures handle identity issues, suggesting that some societies do not tolerate extreme expressions of identity.

• Argues for the need to address ideological "cancers" within society rather than accommodating them.

Emerging Trends in Animal Identity

Disturbing Practices in Argentina

• Reports on disturbing trends where individuals are reportedly using animal skins for clothing as part of an identity movement, raising ethical concerns.

• Highlights a TikTok video discussing illegal practices involving animal skins in Argentina, which contradict established laws against such actions.

Psychological Implications of Identity Trends

• Introduces discussions around social disorientation linked to emerging identity trends, referencing diagnostic manuals related to body image disorders.

Adolescent Behavior and Identity Formation

Adolescent Challenges

• Describes three key characteristics influencing adolescent behavior: authority defiance, egocentrism regarding personal expression, and emotional needs.

Influence of Media and Social Perception

• Discusses how adolescents often seek validation through media portrayals while grappling with their identities amidst societal expectations.

Understanding Adolescent Vulnerability and Social Dynamics

The Impact of Gifts on Adolescents

• The act of giving gifts after correcting behavior can be perceived as an attempt to buy affection, highlighting the delicate balance in adolescent relationships.

• Adolescents are characterized by vulnerability, making them susceptible to various subcultures and trends that influence their identity.

Rituals and Membership in Subcultures

• Observations of a girl participating in a subculture reveal initiation rituals, such as the "penguin salute," which serve as markers of belonging within these groups.

• Initiation rites often involve physical acts or symbols (e.g., being lifted for 13 or 18 seconds), emphasizing the psychological aspects tied to gang culture.

Anonymity and Identity Concealment

• The use of pseudonyms online allows individuals to express themselves without revealing their true identities, raising questions about moral standards and social norms.

• This anonymity can lead to challenges in accountability, with individuals feeling empowered to act without fear of repercussions.

Psychopathic Traits Among Youth

• A notable trend among Honduran youth is the emergence of psychopathic traits characterized by defiance against authority figures.

• This rebellion manifests in resistance to parental inquiries about personal activities, indicating a broader societal issue regarding respect for authority.

Extended Adolescence and Social Disorientation

• The speaker suggests that adolescence now spans from ages 10 to 27, reflecting changes in societal expectations and maturity timelines.

• There is a growing trend where older adults return home seeking comfort or support from parents, illustrating ongoing dependency issues into adulthood.

Cultural Deficiencies and Artificiality

• A critique is made regarding the superficial nature of modern society, where individuals prioritize appearances over genuine connections with living beings.

• The discussion highlights a lack of empathy towards animals and nature due to increasing artificiality fostered by social media influences.

Call for Cultural Improvement

• Emphasis is placed on improving cultural engagement through reading habits rather than superficial entertainment activities prevalent among youth today.

Discussion on Social Issues and Identity

Reactions to Social Norms

• A taxi driver drops off a passenger due to a "no pets" policy, highlighting societal attitudes towards unconventional identities.

• Users express concerns about the government's inaction regarding masked individuals, suggesting that such behavior should be legally addressed.

Perspectives on Identity

• Discussion shifts to the interpretation of identity, with a focus on how some individuals may identify as animals rather than humans.

• A viewer suggests supporting children who identify as animals by accommodating their needs, emphasizing acceptance and respect for their self-perception.

Bullying and Digital Narratives

• The conversation reveals three main narratives influencing social media discussions: TikTok trends, value-based upbringing, and anti-bullying efforts.

• Concerns are raised about the potential for increased bullying due to trivialization of serious topics in media coverage.

Media Influence and Public Discourse

• The importance of treating sensitive subjects seriously is emphasized; failure to do so could lead to societal chaos.

• Data from TikTok shows significant engagement with these topics, indicating a mix of curiosity and ridicule among users.