backward displacement

in parapsychology experiments using Zener cards or similar targets, a result in which the participant’s “call” or guess matches the outcome of the previous trial in the series rather than the current one. If this effect occurs consistently, it may be taken as evidence of retrocognition. Compare forward displacement.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

novelty seeking

1. a personality trait characterized by a strong interest in having new experiences; it is often associated with risk-taking behavior, and hence the term may be used synonymously with sensation seeking. It is also increasingly the preferred term for neophilia.

2. see Cloninger’s psychobiological model of personality; Temperament and Character Inventory.