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primary behavior disorder

any of various behavior problems in children and adolescents, including habit disturbances (e.g., nail biting, temper tantrums), bed-wetting, conduct disorders (e.g., vandalism, fire setting, alcohol or drug use, sex offenses, stealing), and school-centered difficulties (e.g., truancy, school phobia, disruptive behavior).

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

aggressive character

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.