Erotomania is an unusual form of self-deception in which the affected person strongly believes that another individual is in love with them.
This condition develops and is reinforced despite clear evidence to the contrary. Erotomania is rare and usually affects women more often than men.
It can start suddenly and symptoms usually last for a long time. The object of affection is usually an older, unapproachable person of higher social status who may have had little or no previous contact with the erotomaniac.
Erotomania is otherwise called De Clerambault's syndrome, after the French psychiatrist who first described it as a distinct disorder in 1921. This condition is often associated with other psychiatric disorders, but it can also occur on its own.
Reports of these cases suggest that social networks can worsen the condition and cause even greater delusions.
Social media removes some of the barriers between strangers and can easily be used to stalk, contact and harass anyone.
Some studies suggest that erotomania sometimes comes as a way to manage extreme stress or trauma. Genetics can also contribute to the development of delusional disorders.
Behaviors associated with erotomania include persistent attempts to establish contact through threats, texting, and other harassing behaviors.
This may be associated with a belief that the object of affection is sending secret and personal messages.
Source: Medical News Today
