Latah

Latah is a condition of hyperstartling found in southeast Asia that is commonly considered a culture-specific syndrome. It is also the name for those with the condition, which is found mainly in adult women. The afflicted have a severe reaction to being surprised in which they lose control of their behavior, mimic the speech and actions of those around them and obey any commands given them. Latahs are generally not considered responsible for their actions during these episodes.

Similar conditions have been recorded in other parts of the world such as Maine and Yemen but the connection between these behaviors remains unclear.

Latahs are a recurring theme in William S. Burroughs' writings.