Find over 25,000 psychological definitions


neodissociation theory

a theory that explains the dissociative phenomena of hypnosis as a result of divided consciousness. For example, hypnotic analgesia can produce subjective relief from pain while physiological measures indicate that some pain response is still being registered. See also hidden observer. [proposed by Ernest R. Hilgard]

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

December 22nd 2024

Machiavellianism

Machiavellianism

n. a personality trait marked by a calculating attitude toward human relationships and a belief that ends justify means, however ruthless. A Machiavellian is one who views other people more or less as objects to be manipulated in pursuit of his or her goals, if necessary through deliberate deception. [Niccolò Machiavelli, who argued that an effective ruler must be prepared to act in this way]