disorientation

n.impaired ability to identify oneself or to locate oneself in relation to time, place, or other aspects of one’s surroundings. Long-term disorientation can be characteristic of neurological and psychological disorders; temporary disorientation can be caused by alcohol or drugs or can occur in situations of acute stress, such as fires or earthquakes. See also confusion; topographical disorientation. —disoriented adj.

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Psychology term of the day

February 12th 2025

ethics of animal research

the complex set of issues relating to the ethics of manipulating nonhuman animals experimentally, holding them in captivity, and using them for the purpose of research. Some argue that any animal research is unethical because animals cannot give informed consent. Others see value in animal research if the animals are well cared for and treated humanely. See animal care and use; Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.