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basic hostility

in ego psychology, a feeling of hostility and resentment toward the parents that develops as a result of the basic anxiety that the infant feels at being dependent on them. To the extent that the infant fears the parents, basic hostility and anxiety are repressed and give rise to neurotic needs and neurotic trends. [defined by Karen D. Horney]

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Psychology term of the day

November 25th 2024

hyperorexia

hyperorexia

n. a pathologically increased appetite. See also bulimia. Compare hyporexia.