false self

in the object relations theory of British psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott (1896–1971), the self that develops as a defense against impingements and in adaptation to the environment. This contrasts with the true self, which develops in an environment that adapts to the infant and allows him or her to discover and express true impulses.

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Psychology term of the day

December 18th 2024

psyching up

undertaking a series of activities for the purpose of getting into an ideal performance state for an event, such as a competition or an examination.