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sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic dependence

in DSM–IV–TR, a pattern of repeated or compulsive use of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic drugs despite significant behavioral, physiological, and psychosocial problems associated with their use and possible tolerance and withdrawal symptoms if use is suspended (see sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic withdrawal). The separate diagnoses for dependence on and abuse of these substances have been subsumed in DSM–5 under sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder and are no longer considered distinct entities.

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Psychology term of the day

February 28th 2025

hypnotic regression

hypnotic regression

a therapeutic technique in which an individual under hypnosis is induced to relive a previous experience that may be contributing to current emotional difficulties. There are two types of hypnotic regression: age regression and past-life regression.