affective discharge

the expression of strong emotions (e.g., sorrow or anger) by clients undergoing therapy in which the therapist uses techniques aimed at facilitating deeper exploration of past experiences. Affective discharge is believed to be a release of psychic energy. Also called cathectic discharge.

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Psychology term of the day

December 27th 2024

process–reactive

adj. relating to a disease model of schizophrenia based on the distinction between gradual and acute onset of symptoms. Process schizophrenia is marked by a long-term gradual deterioration before the disease is manifest, whereas reactive schizophrenia is associated with a rapid onset of symptoms after a relatively normal premorbid period.