dissociation

(di sō′sē ās̸hən, -s̸hē-)

noun

  1. a dissociating or being dissociated; separation
  2. Chem. the breaking up of a compound into simpler components, as with heat or a solvent, frequently in a reversible manner so that the components may recombine
  3. Psychol.
    1. a split in the conscious process in which a group of mental activities breaks away from the main stream of consciousness and functions as a separate unit, as if belonging to another person
    2. the abnormal separation of related ideas, thoughts, or emotions

Origin: L dissociatio

Related Forms:

See dissociation in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. The act of dissociating or the condition of having been dissociated.
  2. Chemistry
    a. The process by which the action of a solvent or a change in physical condition, as in pressure or temperature, causes a molecule to split into simpler groups of atoms, single atoms, or ions.
    b. The separation of an electrolyte into ions of opposite charge.
  3. Psychiatry A psychological defense mechanism in which specific, anxiety-provoking thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations are separated from the rest of the psyche.

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