topdog

n. a set of internal moral standards or rules of conduct that produce anxiety and conflict in the individual when they are not fulfilled or carried out. The topdog is an ego state of superiority over the underdog. [defined by German-born U.S. psychiatrist Frederick (Fritz) S. Perls (1893–1970)]

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Psychology term of the day

January 13th 2025

occupational counseling

an early 20th-century approach to vocational guidance. Three steps were identified in the process: (a) relevant knowledge of self, (b) realistic knowledge of occupations, and (c) true reasoning in making sensible choices. [proposed by U.S. educator Frank Parsons (1854–1908)]