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bad me

in the self-system theory of Harry Stack Sullivan, the internalized personification of impulses and behaviors that are considered to be negative by the self and, therefore, need to be hidden or disguised from others or from the self. In a child, for instance, the bad me may arise out of a sense of parental disapproval that in turn gives rise to anxiety and self-doubt. Compare good me; not me.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

coerced confession

coerced confession

an accused person’s admission of guilt elicited by the use of threats, torture, or promises. Also called involuntary confession.