neurotic trend

in the theory of Karen D. Horney, any one of three basic tendencies stemming from an individual’s choice of strategies to counteract basic anxiety. These strategies generate insatiable neurotic needs and include (a) moving toward people, or clinging to others (see compliant character); (b) moving away from people, or insisting on independence and self-dependence (see detached character); and (c) moving against people, or seeking power, prestige, and possessions (see aggressive character).

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Psychology term of the day

February 20th 2025

principle of constancy

in classical psychoanalytic theory, the idea that all mental processes tend toward a state of equilibrium and the stability of the inorganic state. Also called constancy law; law of constancy. See also death instinct; nirvana principle.