Koro is a fear of the genitals or breasts retracting into the body. Also known as genital retraction syndrome, this irrational distress is seen more commonly in East and Southeast Asia—China, Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Thailand—as well as other regions such as Africa. This acute anxiety is influenced by culture and traditional beliefs. "Koro" is originally a Malay word that means head of turtle; "keruk," which means to shrink. Koro syndrome was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
The Psychology of Koro
While the human genitals naturally retract in cold temperatures or weight gain, Koro is an irrational fear . People who suffer feel a loss of sexuality and life, and that the problem is fatal. Koro can come about if a person feels guilt over sexual activity or even shame about masturbation . Koro affects more men than women. To alleviate their symptoms, men may try to secure the penis with a string or other device, while women may stick pins into their breasts.
The age range of individuals who suffer is wide, from adolescence to adulthood. It may be more common among younger people because of the onset of hormones and changes in the body during this period in life.
Co-occurring conditions can include severe anxiety , the fear of death , depression , body dysmorphia, and psychosis , among others. The person also generally has low self-regard and a poor quality of life.
The person who has Koro may worry about becoming sterile, turning into a eunuch, or even turning into a woman. The individual may feel they are cursed or possessed by spirits.
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