‘Real vampires’ sincerely think they must feed on others to survive. Should a therapist tell a vampire their self-identity is false? It’s not so obvious
“Real vampires” are people who think they must feed on the energies of others, either physically or psychically, for their own wellbeing. Feeding takes a variety of forms. Some will drink blood from consenting human donors, others will rely on physical contact. For some, being in a crowded room is enough to recharge their batteries.
What happens when a “real vampire” needs to get counselling, or go to a social worker? A recent study explores the barriers vampires must overcome when they come into contact with members of the “helping professions” – psychology, social work and so on.
Related: What to do if millions of Romanian vampires pitch camp at Marble Arch | Stewart Lee
In some sense, vampirism reveals the difficulties of human self-definition in a time of tolerance.
We make men without chests and expect from them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honour and are shocked to find traitors in our midst.
Related: What is the meaning of the 'vampire graves' unearthed in Poland?
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