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prelogical thinking

in psychoanalytic theory, primitive thought processes that are characteristic of early childhood, when thought is under the control of the pleasure principle rather than the reality principle. Such thinking may also occur later in life, as in daydreaming, in which wish fulfillment is dominant, or in psychosis. See also magical thinking; primary process.

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Psychology term of the day

November 17th 2024

centripetal

centripetal

adj.

1. directed toward the center. For example, a centripetal nerve carries nerve impulses from the periphery to the central nervous system. Compare centrifugal.

2. characterizing treatment approaches that focus inward on minute changes in feelings and impulses, as in psychoanalysis.