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

November 27th 2024

cognitive impairment

any impairment in perceptual, learning, memory, linguistic, or thinking abilities. Multiple significant cognitive impairments in memory plus one or more other cognitive defects are characteristic of dementia. See also mild cognitive impairment.