depressive disorder

in DSM–IV–TR and DSM–5, any of the mood disorders that typically have sadness as the predominant symptom. They primarily include major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder.

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Psychology term of the day

February 21st 2025

Hoover’s sign

a diagnostic test for neurological (as distinct from psychological) hemiplegia in which the individual in a reclining position attempts to raise the paralyzed leg: An individual with true hemiplegia reflexively presses down the heel of the healthy leg during the test. The absence of the downward movement is a positive Hoover’s sign and suggests psychogenic paresis or malingering. [Charles Franklin Hoover (1865–1927), U.S. physician]