cocaine withdrawal

in DSM–IV–TR, a characteristic withdrawal syndrome that develops after cessation of (or reduction in) prolonged, heavy consumption of cocaine. The essential characteristic is depressed mood, sometimes severe, and there may also be fatigue, disturbed sleep, increased appetite, vivid and unpleasant dreams, or psychomotor retardation or agitation, or all of these features. Marked withdrawal symptoms (see crash) often follow an episode of intense, high-dose use. The equivalent term in DSM–5 is stimulant withdrawal. See also substance withdrawal.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

pretest

1. n. an initial assessment designed to measure existing characteristics (e.g., knowledge, ability) before some intervention, condition, manipulation, or treatment is introduced. Pretests often are given to research participants before they take part in a study. For example, in a study examining whether training helps math performance, participants might be administered a short math test to assess their original knowledge prior to undergoing the training. See also posttest.

2. n. a test administered before the main study to ensure that participants understand the instructions and procedures. See pilot study; practice trial.

3. vb. to administer a pretest.