The psychological term for the feeling where an unknown person seems to be very familiar is "déjà vu." Déjà vu is a French term that translates to "already seen." It refers to the strong sensation that the current experience has been experienced or encountered before, even though it is happening for the first time.
Déjà vu is a common phenomenon, and many people have experienced it at some point in their lives. The exact cause of déjà vu is not fully understood, and it has been a subject of interest in psychology and neuroscience. There are several theories regarding its underlying mechanisms, including:
Memory-related theories: Déjà vu may be linked to a brief hiccup or error in the brain's memory processes, causing the feeling of familiarity. It can happen when current sensory input closely resembles past experiences, triggering a false sense of recognition.
Dual processing theory: According to this theory, déjà vu occurs when there is a temporary mismatch between the brain's perceptual processing and its memory processing. This mismatch creates the feeling of familiarity with a new experience.
Neurological and brain-related factors: Some research suggests that déjà vu may be associated with specific brain regions responsible for memory and recognition, such as the hippocampus and temporal lobe.
Fatigue or stress: Fatigue, stress, or other cognitive factors might increase the likelihood of experiencing déjà vu.
It's essential to note that occasional déjà vu experiences are considered a normal and harmless aspect of human cognition. However, if someone frequently experiences déjà vu or if it is accompanied by other unusual sensations or cognitive disturbances, it may be a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.