cryptophoric symbolism

a type of representation expressed indirectly in the form of a metaphor. For example, a person may describe a difficult relationship in terms of an illegible map or a stuck door. In metaphor therapy, patients are encouraged to alter their attitudes or perceptions by finding new metaphors. Also called metaphoric symbolism. [described by U.S. psychotherapist Richard R. Kopp (1942–2012)]

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

January 29th 2025

catastrophic illness

a severe illness, acute or chronic, that is likely to result in serious disability or death. Treatment is typically prolonged, intense, and costly.