The Ostrich Syndrome is a term based on a misunderstanding about a specific behavior shown by ostriches. This has been used to describe how some people respond to a threat or problem.
Ostrich Behavior: The ostrich swallows small stones to aid digestion. The ostrich’s head appears to be buried in sand while doing this.
Popular Usage: A person tries to avoid a threat or unpleasant situation by “burying his/her head in sand”. Although the ostrich is fully visible the implication is that the ostrich believes that by hiding his/her head the entire body is hidden.
Elements: threat avoidance by hiding, wishful thinking, futility
The source of the misinformation is ascribed to Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus) although he may simply been the person who recorded it.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
