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symptomatic act

an action that appears to be intended for one purpose (or to have no particular purpose) but that betrays a hidden intention or meaning. In classical psychoanalytic theory, such acts are thought to represent repressed impulses, affects, or ideas. Also called symbolic action. See also compromise formation; Freudian slip; parapraxis; symptom formation.

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Psychology term of the day

November 16th 2024

marital conflict

marital conflict

open or latent antagonism between marriage partners. The nature and intensity of conflicts varies greatly, but studies indicate that the prime sources are often sexual disagreement, child-rearing differences, temperamental differences (particularly the tendency of one partner to dominate), and, to a lesser extent, religious differences, differences in values and interests, and disagreements over money management.