Otherkin
A broader community of individuals who identify as non-human entities — including mythical creatures (elves, dragons), fictional characters, or other non-earthly beings. Therians are sometimes considered a subset of otherkin, though the communities overlap.
In depth
Otherkin is a term that describes individuals who identify, on a deep and personal level, as non-human entities. While therians specifically identify with real-world animals, the otherkin community encompasses a much broader range of identities, including mythical creatures (dragons, elves, fae), fictional characters (fictionkin), celestial beings, and other non-earthly entities.
The otherkin community has a long history, running parallel to the therian community since the early days of the internet. Both communities share many concepts — such as shifting, awakening, and the idea of a core non-human identity — but apply them to different types of beings. Therians are sometimes considered a subset of otherkin, though the relationship between the communities varies and some therians prefer to maintain a distinct identity.
Like therianthropy, being otherkin is not a choice, a belief, or a role-play exercise. Otherkin describe their non-human identity as an intrinsic part of who they are. The community values self-discovery, honest introspection, and mutual respect for the diversity of non-human identities that exist within it.
Examples
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A person who identifies as a dragon experiences phantom wings, a deep connection to fire and flight, and a sense of ancient wisdom that feels like part of their core identity.
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An elf-kin feels an enduring connection to forests, nature magic, and a sense of age and wisdom that goes beyond human experience, seeing elven qualities as fundamental to who they are.
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A fictionkin identifies deeply with a specific fictional character, experiencing it not as fandom but as genuine identity — the character's traits, memories, and experiences feel like their own.
Common Questions
What is the difference between otherkin and therians?
Therians specifically identify with real-world animals (wolves, cats, hawks, etc.). Otherkin is a broader term that includes identification with mythical creatures, fictional beings, and other non-human entities. Some therians consider themselves a subcategory of otherkin; others see the communities as related but distinct.
Is being otherkin the same as roleplaying?
No. Being otherkin is an identity experience, not a game or creative exercise. Otherkin do not choose their kintype any more than therians choose their theriotype. The experience is persistent, involuntary, and deeply personal.
Can someone be both otherkin and therian?
Yes. A person might identify with both a real-world animal (theriotype) and a mythical or fictional being (kintype). These identities can coexist and are part of the broader alterhuman experience.
Related Terms
Therianthropy
A deep, intrinsic identification with a non-human animal. Derived from the Greek θηρίον (therion, "beast") and ἄνθρωπος (anthropos, "human"). Therians experience their animal identity as a core part of who they are, not a choice or a hobby.
Read more →Kintype
The specific entity an otherkin identifies with, similar to how "theriotype" is used for therians. A kintype can be a mythological creature, fictional character, or any non-human being.
Read more →Alterhumanity
An umbrella term for identities that are experienced as alternative to the traditional human experience. This includes therians, otherkin, fictionkin, and other identity experiences that involve a deep sense of being non-human or other-than-human.
Read more →Awakening
The process of realizing and accepting one's therian identity. Awakening is not a single moment but often a gradual journey of self-discovery that may span months or years. It typically involves recognizing patterns in one's feelings and experiences.
Read more →