conversion paralysis

a psychogenic disorder in which there is an apparent loss of function of the muscles of a limb or a portion of the body for which no neurological cause can be identified. Unlike organic paralysis, reflexes may be intact, muscle tone may be normal, and the paralyzed limb may be moved inadvertently when the patient’s attention is elsewhere. This is one of the possible symptoms of conversion disorder.

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Psychology term of the day

January 26th 2025

chemotherapy

n. the use of chemical agents to treat diseases, particularly cancer, in which case it is contrasted with radiation therapy. —chemotherapeutic adj. —chemotherapist n.