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Köhler effect

an increase in motivation that sometimes occurs among individuals working in groups on conjunctive tasks that require persistence but little coordination of effort. The effect is likely due to the increased effort expended by the less capable group members. Compare compensation effect. [first observed in 1926 by German researcher Otto Köhler]

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

aggressive character

aggressive character

a personality characterized by a hostile or competitive attitude to others and the pursuit of power, prestige, and material possessions. Karen D. Horney defined the development of such a character as one of three basic neurotic trends used as a defense against basic anxiety. Compare compliant character; detached character.