psyching out

the use of various techniques to create fear, apprehension, and doubt in another person. This colloquialism probably originated in sport with reference to the psyching out of a competitor but has become generalized to numerous other situations.

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Psychology term of the day

January 18th 2025

double approach–avoidance conflict

a complex conflict situation arising when a person is confronted with two goals or options that each have significant attractive and unattractive features. See also approach–avoidance conflict.