sedative

1. n. a drug that has a calming effect and therefore relieves anxiety, agitation, or behavioral excitement by depressing the central nervous system. The degree of sedation depends on the agent, the size of the dose, the method of administration, and the condition of the patient. A drug that sedates in small doses may induce sleep in larger doses and may be used as a hypnotic; such drugs are commonly known as sedative–hypnotics. Benzodiazepines are commonly used as sedatives.

2. adj. producing sedation.

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Psychology term of the day

April 30th 2024

working through

1. in psychotherapy, the process by which clients identify, explore, and deal with psychological issues, on both an intellectual and emotional level, through the presentation of such material to and in discussion with the therapist.

2. in psychoanalysis, the process by which patients gradually overcome their resistance to the disclosure of unconscious material; are brought face to face with the repressed feelings, threatening impulses, and internal conflicts at the root of their difficulties; and develop conscious ways to rebound from, resolve, or otherwise deal with these feelings, impulses, and conflicts.