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·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
Psychiatry The use of reasoning in response to confrontation with unconscious conflicts and accompanying stressful emotions
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