The authors propose a set of diagnostic criteria and report two cases of ataque de nervios, a syndrome of brief duration seen primarily in Spanish-speaking people of the Caribbean. Following a psychosocial stressor, the afflicted person demonstrates impulsivity, dissociation and communication and perceptual disturbances. The symptoms often begin in the presence of the family, allow a temporary relinquishing of social roles, and result in the mobilization of the social network in support of the person. Further research is needed to improve our understanding of this culture specific syndrome and its relationship to psychiatric disorder.