positive hallucination

a false perceptual experience characterized by perception of something that is not there. In general, positive hallucinations are exaggerations of normal perception. Although they are a hallmark of psychotic disturbances, such as schizophrenia, these perceptual experiences can also be generated by hypnosis. Compare negative hallucination.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

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.