Theriotype
The specific animal a therian identifies with. For example, a person whose theriotype is a wolf experiences a deep connection to wolf behavior, instincts, and identity. Some therians have more than one theriotype (polytherian).
In depth
A theriotype is the specific animal species that a therian identifies as on a deep, intrinsic level. Just as therianthropy describes the overall experience, the theriotype names the particular animal at the core of that identity. Common theriotypes include wolves, foxes, cats, birds of prey, and many others, but virtually any animal species can be a theriotype.
Some therians identify with a single animal (monotherian), while others connect with two or more species (polytherian). Discovering one's theriotype is often a gradual process that involves introspection, research into animal behavior, and honest self-reflection about which animal's instincts, social patterns, and ways of perceiving the world resonate most deeply.
It is important to understand that a theriotype is not a favorite animal or a spirit guide. It is the animal that a therian experiences as part of their identity. The distinction is between liking an animal and feeling that you are that animal on some fundamental level.
Examples
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A therian whose theriotype is a red fox may experience fox-like instincts such as curiosity, wariness of strangers, and a preference for solitary or small-group socializing.
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A polytherian might identify with both a wolf and an eagle, experiencing different shifts and behavioral patterns associated with each theriotype at different times.
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Someone taking the theriotype quiz discovers that their personality traits, social preferences, and instinctual responses closely align with a specific animal they had not previously considered.
Common Questions
How do you find your theriotype?
Discovering your theriotype involves honest introspection about your instincts, behaviors, and feelings. Many therians research animal behavior extensively, meditate on their experiences, and notice patterns in their shifts over time. Quizzes can provide a starting point, but the process is deeply personal.
Can your theriotype change?
Most therians report that their theriotype is stable and does not change. However, some people discover additional theriotypes over time (becoming polytherian), or refine their understanding of their theriotype as they learn more about themselves and animal species.
What is the difference between a theriotype and a kintype?
A theriotype specifically refers to a real-world animal that a therian identifies with. A kintype is a broader term used in the otherkin community that can include mythical creatures, fictional characters, or other non-human entities.
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 →Shifting
The experience of a change in perception, awareness, or sensation toward one's theriotype. Shifting is not a physical transformation — it is a psychological and sensory experience that can take several forms (mental, phantom, dream, etc.).
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 →