An irrational fear or hatred of people from other countries, cultures, or ethnic groups, often manifesting as anxiety, hostility, or discriminatory behavior. While not a formal psychiatric diagnosis, xenophobia can contribute to stress-related disorders and social dysfunction.
From Greek 'xenos' (stranger, foreigner) and 'phobos' (fear). First used in the early 20th century, the term evolved from describing individual fear to encompassing broader social and political attitudes toward outsiders.
Xenophobia activates the same brain regions involved in fear responses and disgust, particularly the amygdala, suggesting it may have evolutionary origins in protecting tribal groups from potential threats. This biological basis helps explain why xenophobic attitudes can be so persistent and emotionally charged, even when logically unfounded.
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