In the most recent ESPN the Magazine issue, they asked an actual psychologist to evaluate the idea of “march madness”. Below is that interview:
We call it March Madness, but is it? “Not really. In fact, the term “madness” hasn’t been used to describe neurological disorders for nearly a hundred years”.
So it’s like March Temporary Insanity? “No. Temporary insanity is actually a legal term, used to describe an acute traumatic event or a freak neurological disorder”.
Okay, fine. March Group Contagion? “There are cases of crowds promoting insanity. People watching a sporting event can be swept up in the emotionsof those around them”.
Sorry, March Mass Hysteria isn’t gonna cut it. The most logical condition to associate with this would be mania. It’s a temporary bipolar disorder that can result in overexcitability or excess irritability-like what happens when you watch a team you care about. Mania can last a few days or a few months”.
Or three weeks. March Mania it is! Medication is the best way to treat mania. A mood stabilizer like lithium can decrease excitability and calm a person down.
But isn’t that what the NIT is for?
Funny stuff, ESPN. And a hearty thanks to the PhD at Cleveland State that participated in this interview.
And rock on March Madness/Mania! I can’t wait for the Final Four on Saturday!
