intellectualization /in·tel·lec·tu·al·iza·tion/ (in″tĕ-lek″choo-al-ĭ-za´shun) an unconscious defense mechanism in which reasoning is used to avoid confronting an objectionable impulse, emotional conflict, or other stressor and thus to defend against anxiety.
intellectualization
intellectualization [in″tĕ-lek″choo-al-ĭ-za´shun]
intellectualization
in·tel·lec·tu·al·i·za·tion ( n tl- kch - -l-z  shn)n. 1. The act or process of intellectualizing. 2. An unconscious means of protecting oneself from the emotional stress and anxiety associated with confronting painful personal fears or problems by excessive reasoning. |
intellectualization
[in′təlek′cho̅o̅·əlīzā′shən]
Etymology: L, intellectus + Gk, izein, to cause
1 (in psychiatry) a defense mechanism in which reasoning is used as a means of blocking a confrontation with an unconscious conflict and the emotional stress associated with it.
2 the overuse of abstract thinking or generalizations to control or minimize painful feelings.
intellectualization [in″tĕ-lek″choo-al-ĭ-za´shun]
an unconscious defense mechanism in which reasoning is used to avoid confronting an objectionable impulse and thus to defend against anxiety.
intellectualization
Psychiatry The use of reasoning in response to confrontation with unconscious conflicts and accompanying stressful emotions
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