modus operandi

a specific behavioral pattern that may typify a particular individual; the term is often used with respect to criminal behavior but also more generally to signify any individual’s particular behavioral approach or way of acting. [from Latin, “manner of working”]

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Psychology term of the day

January 15th 2025

overcontrolled

adj. denoting behavior that is inhibited and constrained, often driven by shyness or fear of rejection. The word is typically used to describe the behavior of children thought to be at risk for depression, but it may also refer to similar behavior in adults.