catharsis

1. in psychoanalytic theory, the discharge of previously repressed affects connected to traumatic events that occurs when these events are brought back into consciousness and reexperienced. See also abreaction.

2. more generally, the release of strong, pent-up emotions. [from Greek, literally: “purgation,” “purification”] —cathartic adj.

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Psychology term of the day

March 16th 2025

imipramine

n. a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) with a tertiary amine molecular structure. It was originally synthesized in the hope of creating an effective antipsychotic but was observed to be ineffective in reducing psychotic symptoms. It did, however, seem to help individuals with severe depression and was subsequently marketed as an antidepressant. It is considered the prototype TCA, and like all tricyclic agents, its use as an antidepressant has been largely supplanted by less toxic drugs. It retains a therapeutic role as a sedative and adjunct in the management of neuromuscular or musculoskeletal pain. U.S. trade name: Tofranil.