psychology 

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Psychological Term — Anaclitic
In psychoanalytic theory, anaclitic describes a pattern of emotional dependency on another person. The term, introduced by Sigmund Freud in 1905, characterizes individuals who rely heavily on others for psychological support, self-esteem, or emotional stability. The concept is often illustrated through the relationship between an infant and its mother, whose presence provides comfort, nourishment, and a sense of security.

Anaclitic tendencies may persist into adulthood, shaping relationship patterns marked by dependency, fear of abandonment, and difficulty functioning independently. Within Freudian developmental theory, anaclitic object choice refers to selecting partners who resemble early caregivers, especially those associated with satisfaction of basic needs.

The term is closely connected to anaclitic depression, in which severe emotional responses result from separation from the primary caregiver. Anaclisis thus captures both a relational style and its potential psychological consequences.



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