adj. in psychoanalytic theory, describing a behavior—particularly an interpersonal behavior—in which the underlying drives are deflected from their original object and remain largely unconscious. According to the theory, aim inhibition characterizes those situations in which an instinct fails to achieve direct satisfaction of its aim but obtains reduced gratification through activities or relationships similar to the original aim. Sigmund Freud used this idea to explain affectional relationships within families and platonic friendships as deriving from an aim-inhibited sexual instinct.