withdrawal reflex

a reflex that may be elicited by any painful stimulus or unexpected threat to the well-being of the individual. It is characterized by sudden movement away from the potentially damaging stimulus, which requires rapid coordination of neuromuscular units.

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Psychology term of the day

March 17th 2025

mantra

1. in Hinduism and Buddhism, a sacred utterance, such as a syllable, phrase, or hymn (often in Sanskrit).

2. any verbal formula used for spiritual, religious, or meditative purposes to help block out extraneous thoughts and induce a state of relaxation that enables the individual to reach a deeper level of consciousness. See also concentrative meditation; transcendental meditation. Compare yantra.