psychodynamic approach

the psychological and psychiatric approach that views human behavior from the standpoint of unconscious motives that mold the personality, influence attitudes, and produce emotional disorder. The emphasis is on tracing behavior to its origins, as contrasted with the nosological approach, which concentrates on overt signs and symptoms of disorder. See dynamic psychology; psychodynamic psychotherapy.

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Psychology term of the day

November 25th 2024

procedural justice

1. in legal proceedings, the use of methods and procedures that are fair and impartial, as distinct from the making of just decisions. The various rules governing how witnesses are questioned and what evidence is admitted into court are examples of the application of procedural justice within the legal system.

2. see organizational justice.