incest

n. sexual activity between family members, whether related by blood or not. Some form of incest taboo, or prohibition in custom or law against incest between first-degree relatives (e.g., father–daughter, mother–son, brother–sister), is found in nearly every society. In some societies, sexual intercourse between cousins, uncles and nieces, or aunts and nephews is also prohibited; in others, it is permitted. —incestuous adj.

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Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

alternative behavior completion

a technique in behavior therapy for extinguishing unwanted habits by substituting an incompatible behavior for the nondesired behavior (e.g., substituting nail care for nail biting). This technique can be practiced in vivo (see in vivo desensitization) or imaginally in the therapy session or assigned as homework. It is often used as an alternative to mild aversion therapy. See also competing response training.