Therobia

Therobia is a relatively uncommon and obscure term primarily found within the realm of niche fiction and online role-playing communities. It generally refers to the attraction to, or obsession with, anthropomorphic animals, often but not exclusively canines. It's important to distinguish therobia from other related terms such as "furry," although there may be overlap in usage.

While "furry" encompasses a broader appreciation for anthropomorphic animals and furry fandom culture in general (often involving artistic expression, costume creation, and social gatherings), therobia tends to focus more intensely on the feeling of attraction itself. The term may be used by individuals to self-identify their specific attraction, or by others to describe a character or concept within a fictional setting.

The degree of attraction or obsession implied by the term "therobia" can vary significantly. For some, it might be a mild appreciation, while for others it represents a more profound and intense connection.

It is crucial to note that the use of this term can be controversial. Some consider it a problematic label, potentially conflating it with paraphilias or pathologizing what they view as a harmless interest. Context is essential when encountering this term, and it's important to be sensitive to the individual using it to understand their specific meaning. There is no established scientific or psychological definition of therobia.