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birth control

voluntary regulation of the number and spacing of offspring, including (a) the prevention of conception using contraceptive devices or agents (e.g., intrauterine devices, male contraceptive devices, oral contraceptives, spermicides), the rhythm method, and surgical methods of sterilization (e.g., salpingectomy, vasectomy); and (b) the termination of pregnancy by induced abortion.

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Psychology term of the day

December 26th 2024

false self

false self

in the object relations theory of British psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott (1896–1971), the self that develops as a defense against impingements and in adaptation to the environment. This contrasts with the true self, which develops in an environment that adapts to the infant and allows him or her to discover and express true impulses.