PsychologyAugust 19, 2026

hybristophillia

HY-bris-tuh-FIL-ee-uh

Definition

A paraphilia, or disordered sexual interest, characterized by an attraction to individuals who have committed crimes or violent acts.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'hybristes' (an insolent person or perpetrator of an outrage) and 'philia' (love or attraction). It is a modern psychological term used to describe an attraction to notorious criminals.

In the news

The article mentions hybristophilia as a potential psychological explanation for why some people, particularly those in true crime communities, develop a fascination with male offenders.

Why Are We So Obsessed With True Crime?

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