Find over 25,000 psychological definitions


demonic possession

the supposed invasion of the body by an evil spirit or devil that gains control of the mind or soul, producing mental disorder, physical illness, or criminal behavior. Many forms of physical and psychological illness were formerly attributed to such possession, notably epilepsy, schizophrenia, and Tourette’s disorder. The traditional remedy for possession was ritual exorcism.

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 3rd 2025

ring chromosome 18

ring chromosome 18

a congenital chromosomal disorder characterized by microcephaly, ear and eye abnormalities, and mild to severe cognitive impairment. The condition is not hereditary but due to breakage of the arms of chromosome 18, which fuse to form one or more rings of varying sizes.