mental regression
[/ˈmɛntəl rɪˈɡrɛʃən/]
nounpl: mental regressions
regressão mental
1. A psychological or developmental condition in which a person reverts to an earlier stage of mental, emotional, or behavioral functioning, typically in response to stress, trauma, or psychological distress
After the traumatic accident, the child experienced mental regression and began bedwetting again.
Após o acidente traumático, a criança sofreu regressão mental e começou a fazer xixi na cama novamente.
2. In psychoanalysis, a defense mechanism where an individual unconsciously adopts behaviors or thought patterns characteristic of an earlier developmental stage
The therapist identified mental regression as the patient's response to feeling overwhelmed by adult responsibilities.
O terapeuta identificou regressão mental como a resposta do paciente ao se sentir sobrecarregado pelas responsabilidades adultas.
3. A decline in cognitive abilities, reasoning, or intellectual functioning
The doctor warned that prolonged stress could lead to mental regression in elderly patients.
O médico alertou que o estresse prolongado poderia levar à regressão mental em pacientes idosos.
Mental regression is a clinical term widely recognized in both Brazilian and American psychological practice. In Brazil, it is commonly discussed in psychiatric and psychological literature, and the concept is integrated into mental health treatment approaches. In the USA, it is a fundamental concept in psychoanalytic theory and developmental psychology, often referenced in therapy contexts. The term carries clinical neutrality and is used professionally in healthcare settings across both cultures.
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