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zaleplon

n. a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic used for short-term treatment of insomnia. It has a rapid onset but short duration of action. Side effects are less frequent compared with other classes of hypnotics but commonly include headache, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea, and amnesia. Although chemically unrelated to the benzodiazepines, zaleplon acts at the same GABAA receptorgabaa-receptor and carries a similar potential for abuse. U.S. trade name: Sonata.

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Psychology term of the day

February 23rd 2025

competition

competition

n. any performance situation structured in such a way that success depends on performing better than others. Interpersonal competition involves individuals striving to outperform each other; intergroup competition involves groups competing against other groups, with such groups including both small, face-to-face gatherings and very large groups, such as nations; intragroup competition involves individuals within a group trying to best each other. Because competing individuals sometimes increase their chances of success by actively undermining others’ performances, such goal structures can lead to conflict. Compare cooperation. —compete vb. —competitive adj.