regressive thinking
[/rɪˈɡresɪv ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/]
noun
pensamento regressivo
1. A cognitive pattern characterized by moving backward to earlier, more primitive, or less developed ways of thinking, reasoning, or problem-solving
His regressive thinking led him to blame immigrants for all economic problems instead of analyzing complex systemic issues.
Seu pensamento regressivo o levou a culpar imigrantes por todos os problemas econômicos em vez de analisar questões sistêmicas complexas.
2. In psychology, a defensive mechanism where an individual retreats to earlier developmental stages when facing stress or anxiety
During the crisis, the patient exhibited regressive thinking, reverting to childlike behaviors.
Durante a crise, o paciente apresentou pensamento regressivo, revertendo a comportamentos infantis.
3. A tendency to adopt outdated or backward-looking ideologies, policies, or viewpoints that contradict social progress
The political movement's regressive thinking opposed modern labor rights and environmental protections.
O pensamento regressivo do movimento político se opunha aos direitos trabalhistas modernos e às proteções ambientais.
The term is commonly used in Brazilian and American discourse when discussing political movements, social policies, or psychological conditions. In Brazil, it frequently appears in discussions about educational reform, labor rights, and modernization debates. In the USA, it's often employed in partisan political discussions and psychological therapy contexts. The phrase carries negative connotations and is typically used critically to describe thought patterns considered detrimental to societal progress or individual wellbeing.
NYC Slang
going backward in your head; stuck in the past; old-school thinking
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