Inhibition Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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inhibition
[ˌɪnɪˈbɪʃən ]
Definitions
psychology
A conscious or unconscious restraint of a behavior, thought, or feeling.
Synonyms
constraint, restraint, suppression.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| inhibition |
A feeling of fear or embarrassment that stops you from doing something.
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| restraint |
The action of holding oneself back physically or emotionally, often implying self-control or discipline.
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| constraint |
A limitation or restriction imposed on an action or behavior, often due to external factors like rules or physical limitations.
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| suppression |
The act of stopping or preventing something with force, often having a negative or controlling connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Her fear of failure led to a constant state of inhibition, preventing her from taking risks.
- Alcohol is known to lower inhibitions, leading people to act in ways they normally wouldn't.
- Social norms can create inhibitions that limit individuals' actions and behaviors.
biology
The action of a neuron in decreasing the activity of another neuron or group of neurons.
Synonyms
control, regulation, suppression.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| inhibition |
This is often used in psychological or social contexts. It refers to a feeling that makes one self-conscious and unable to act in a relaxed and natural way.
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| suppression |
This often carries a negative connotation and is used when talking about forcibly stopping something. It is commonly used in psychological, political, or social contexts.
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| control |
This word is broadly applicable across various contexts, from psychological to managerial. It generally refers to the power to influence or direct behavior or events.
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| regulation |
Typically used in legal, technical, or organizational settings. It refers to rules or directives made and maintained by an authority.
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Examples of usage
- GABA is an important neurotransmitter involved in the inhibition of neural activity.
- Excitatory and inhibitory signals help maintain the balance of neural firing in the brain.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, inhibition refers to the process that prevents impulses or emotions from being expressed, often to maintain social norms.
- Research indicates that high levels of inhibition can lead to social anxiety and affect how individuals interact with others.
Neuroscience
- The brain's prefrontal cortex is crucial for managing inhibition, helping people decide what to do or not do in certain situations.
- Studies show that neurotransmitters play a role in inhibition, where imbalances can influence behavior and mood.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have varying levels of acceptance toward inhibition in social interactions, impacting communication styles.
- In some cultures, being inhibited is viewed positively and associated with humility, while others value openness and self-expression.
Developmental Psychology
- Inhibition develops during childhood and can vary greatly among kids; some may feel comfortable expressing themselves, while others may struggle.
- Childhood experiences and parental influences significantly shape how children learn to manage their inhibition.
Literature and Art
- Many authors explore themes of inhibition in their characters, portraying inner struggles with self-expression and societal expectations.
- Artists often challenge their own inhibitions, using their work as a means to explore and break free from personal limitations.
Origin of 'inhibition'
The word 'inhibition' originates from the Latin word 'inhibitio', meaning a holding back or restraining. It has been used in various fields such as psychology, biology, and neuroscience to describe the act of restraining or limiting certain behaviors, thoughts, or activities. The concept of inhibition has been studied extensively in psychology to understand human behavior and cognitive processes.
See also: inhibit, inhibitor, inhibitory, uninhibited, uninhibitedly, uninhibitedness.