What is the term used to describe a situation where a large number of people experience uncontrollable delusions and anxiety simultaneously?

The correct term for a situation where a large number of people experience uncontrollable delusions and anxiety simultaneously is mass hysteria. This phenomenon typically involves a group of individuals who collectively experience similar symptoms of anxiety, fear, or irrational behavior, often catalyzed by specific events or shared beliefs. Mass hysteria can manifest as symptoms such as panic attacks, physical illness, or the belief in a collective threat, which spreads rapidly through social dynamics.

Mass hysteria underscores the influence of social and psychological factors on individual behavior, where the emotional state of the group can lead to shared experiences, regardless of an actual external threat. Understanding this concept is crucial in areas like psychology and sociology, as it provides insights into how societal pressures and group dynamics can impact mental health and behavior on a larger scale.