parens patriae

a doctrine promoting the power and interest of the government (Latin, “parent of the country”) in caring for and protecting minors and individuals who are unable to care for themselves or to provide for their own basic needs, even if implementing this doctrine necessitates restricting their rights. In the United States, this power and interest is vested with the individual states.

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Psychology term of the day

November 25th 2024

self-worth

n. an individual’s evaluation of himself or herself as a valuable, capable human being deserving of respect and consideration. Positive feelings of self-worth tend to be associated with a high degree of self-acceptance and self-esteem.