Exploring the rise of Otherkin and why some young people believe they are not human
A New Identity Phenomenon?
In the ever-expanding landscape of identity, a new conversation is unfolding—one that may seem bewildering to many parents and church leaders. Beyond discussions of gender and sexuality, some young people today are identifying not as another gender, but as another species or being entirely.
Meet the Otherkin.
The term Otherkin refers to individuals who believe they are, in some deep, intrinsic way, not fully human. Some identify with real-world animals (like wolves or birds), while others claim a connection to mythical creatures like dragons, elves, or even celestial beings. Unlike those in the furry community (which is often more of a creative hobby), Otherkin hold that their identity as a non-human entity is part of their personal reality.
For those of us raising and discipling children Christianly, the idea that someone could identify as a non-human being may seem perplexing at best and concerning at worst. Yet, this is a growing cultural phenomenon, and it is vital that we understand it, engage with it biblically, and respond with both truth and compassion.
What Is Otherkin?
The Otherkin movement has its roots in online fantasy and pagan communities dating back to the 1980s and 90s. Many in the movement believe they have a non-human soul, a deep spiritual or psychological connection to another species, or even memories of a “past life” as a different being.
While Otherkin identities vary widely, here are a few key subgroups:
- Therians: Identify specifically as a real-world animal (e.g., a wolf, cat, or bird) and may experience “phantom limbs” (a sense of having wings, a tail, or claws).
- Mythic Otherkin: Identify as legendary creatures such as elves, fairies, dragons, or vampires.
- Fictionkin: Believe they are the reincarnation of a fictional character from books, movies, or video games.
Young people in the Otherkin community often describe feeling different from an early age, sensing that they do not fit in with human society, or longing for an identity that better expresses their inner experience.
Why Is This Appealing?
At first glance, Otherkin identity may seem like mere fantasy or role-playing taken too far. But for many young people, it represents something much deeper:
- A Search for Meaning – Many Otherkin experience a profound disconnection from society. They feel alienated, “other,” or misplaced in the world.
- Escapism & Control – In a culture where identity is self-determined, being Otherkin offers a radical way to create a personal reality and escape feelings of powerlessness.
- Belonging & Community – The Otherkin community, like many online subcultures, provides a strong sense of support, friendship, and shared experience.
- Spiritual or Mystical Connection – Some Otherkin believe their identity is a spiritual reality, tied to reincarnation, past lives, or mystical energies.
- Neurodiversity & Psychological Factors – A significant number of Otherkin are neurodivergent (e.g., autistic), and some describe their non-human identity as a way of making sense of their differences.
A Biblical Response: Identity, Longing, and the Image of God
The Otherkin phenomenon reveals a profound truth about human nature—one that Christians should recognize immediately. This is a generation that is hungry for transcendence, longing for something beyond themselves. The cultural forces that tell young people their identity is entirely self-made have left them drifting, looking for meaning in places other than their Creator.
How does the Bible help us think clearly about this?
1. We Are Made in the Image of God (Imago Dei)
Genesis 1:26-27 declares that humans are uniquely made in the image of God—set apart from the rest of creation. This is not a limitation but a stunning gift. The human identity, as God designed it, is the only identity that truly satisfies because it reflects our Creator Himself.
To identify as non-human is to deny or distort this reality. It reflects an inward discontentment, a yearning to be something “more” than what God has made us to be. Yet, Scripture reminds us that humanity, as God intended, is already full of beauty and purpose (Psalm 8:3-6).
2. We Long for Another World—Because We Were Made for One
Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us that God has “set eternity in the human heart.” Every human being experiences a deep inner longing for something beyond this world. The problem is where we look to satisfy that longing.
- The Otherkin movement offers a false transcendence—a way to escape the limitations of life in this world.
- But Christianity offers true transcendence—not by becoming something non-human, but by being redeemed into the fullness of what God created us to be in Christ.
- Scripture reminds us that our true citizenship is in heaven. This world, in its fallen state, will never fully satisfy our longings, and that’s because we were made for the Kingdom of God.
3. The Gospel Offers the Identity We’re Truly Searching For
The deep longing for belonging that draws many young people into the Otherkin community is ultimately a search for identity, purpose, and home. Yet, Scripture reveals that this yearning is fully met in Christ. Those who believe in Him are not left adrift in self-constructed identities but are embraced as children of God (John 1:12). In Christ, they are not simply remade—they are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), given an identity that is secure, eternal, and rooted in divine love. No longer strangers or outsiders, they are welcomed into God’s household (Ephesians 2:19), a place of true belonging. For those who feel alienated and lost, the gospel is not just good news—it is the invitation they have been searching for all along: Come home.
How Can Churches and Parents Engage?
- Listen with Compassion – Instead of reacting with shock or dismissal, ask questions. Why do they feel drawn to this identity? What do they hope it will give them? This will open the door for deeper conversations.
- Point to the True Identity in Christ – Instead of merely correcting their belief, show them the far better identity offered in Jesus.
- Help Them See the Big Story – Many young people who identify as Otherkin are drawn to fantasy and mythological storytelling. Teach them that the greatest true story—the gospel—offers far more than any fantasy world ever could. Fantasy and imagination are good gifts from God—but when fiction becomes confused with reality, it can lead away from the truth that sets us free.
- Foster a Strong Church Community – Many Otherkin find belonging online because they feel disconnected from real-life relationships. The church must become a place of deep connection, real love, and biblical identity formation.
Final Thoughts: A Generation Hungry for More
The rise of Otherkin identity may seem strange, but at its core, it is a spiritual hunger—a desire to be something more, to belong somewhere greater. Our culture offers an infinite number of identities, but only one can truly satisfy.
As we disciple young people, let’s not just tell them what’s false—let’s show them what’s far better. Jesus Christ doesn’t call us to escape our humanity, but to redeem it. And in Him, we find the only identity that lasts for eternity.
