Eros

n. the god of love in Greek mythology (equivalent to the Roman Cupid), whose name was chosen by Sigmund Freud to designate a theoretical set of strivings oriented toward sexuality, development, and increased life activity (see life instinct). In Freud’s dual instinct theory, Eros is seen as involved in a dialectic process with Thanatos, the striving toward reduced psychical tension and life activity (see death instinct). See also libido.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

novelty seeking

1. a personality trait characterized by a strong interest in having new experiences; it is often associated with risk-taking behavior, and hence the term may be used synonymously with sensation seeking. It is also increasingly the preferred term for neophilia.

2. see Cloninger’s psychobiological model of personality; Temperament and Character Inventory.