hallucination

n. a false sensory perception that has a compelling sense of reality despite the absence of an external stimulus. It may affect any of the senses, but auditory hallucinations and visual hallucinations are most common. Hallucinations are typically a symptom of a psychotic disorder, particularly schizophrenia, but also may result from substance use, neurological abnormalities, and other conditions. It is important to distinguish hallucinations from illusions, which are misinterpretations of real sensory stimuli.

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Psychology term of the day

May 5th 2024

bureaucracy

1. a system of administration or organizational structure, often in a government body, that is characterized by standardized rule-bound procedures, specialization of skills, and an elaborate hierarchy.

2. unnecessarily lengthy or complex official procedures resulting in delay, inaction, or inflexibility. —bureaucrat n. —bureaucratic adj.