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satisfaction of instincts

in classical psychoanalytic theory, the gratification of basic needs, such as hunger, thirst, sex, and aggression, which discharges tension, eliminates unpleasure, and restores the organism to a balanced state. Satisfaction may occur on a conscious, preconscious, or unconscious level. Also called gratification of instincts. See also libido.

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Psychology term of the day

November 17th 2024

mother figure

mother figure

1. a person who occupies the mothering role in relation to a child: a mother surrogate.

2. in psychoanalytic theory, a person onto whom the patient transfers feelings and attitudes that he or she had toward the real mother or the primary caregiver. Also called mother substitute.