psychodynamics

noun

psy·​cho·​dy·​nam·​ics ˌsī-kō-dī-ˈna-miks How to pronounce psychodynamics (audio)
-də-
plural in form but singular or plural in construction
1
: the psychology of mental or emotional forces or processes developing especially in early childhood and their effects on behavior and mental states
2
: explanation or interpretation (as of behavior or mental states) in terms of mental or emotional forces or processes
3
: motivational forces acting especially at the unconscious level
psychodynamic adjective
psychodynamically adverb

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of psychodynamics was in 1874

Dictionary Entries Near psychodynamics

Cite this Entry

“Psychodynamics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/psychodynamics. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

psychodynamics

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction
psy·​cho·​dy·​nam·​ics ˌsī-kō-dī-ˈnam-iks, -də- How to pronounce psychodynamics (audio)
1
: the psychology of mental or emotional forces or processes developing especially in early childhood and their effects on behavior and mental states
2
: explanation or interpretation (as of behavior or mental states) in terms of mental or emotional forces or processes
3
: motivational forces acting especially at the unconscious level
psychodynamic adjective
psychodynamically adverb
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