Obsessional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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obsessional
[ษbหsษสษnl ]
Definition
mental state
Obsessive refers to a state of being dominated by a persistent, intrusive thought or idea. This term is often used in psychological contexts to describe behaviors such as compulsive actions that individuals feel compelled to perform. It can also denote an unhealthy fixation on a person, activity, or object, which can interfere with daily life and relationships. The obsession may lead to anxiety or distress, as the individual is unable to control these thoughts or behaviors.
Synonyms
compulsive, fixated, infatuated, preoccupied.
Examples of usage
- She had an obsessional focus on cleanliness.
- His obsessional thoughts about the project prevented him from sleeping.
- They showed obsessional tendencies towards their hobbies.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Obsessive thoughts can sometimes lead to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), where people feel they must do things repeatedly.
- Research shows that periods of high stress can increase obsessiveness in thoughts and behaviors.
- Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) often help in managing obsessive thoughts.
Literature
- Famous literary characters often embody obsession, such as Captain Ahab in 'Moby Dick' who relentlessly pursues the whale.
- 'The Great Gatsby' features Gatsbyโs obsessive love for Daisy, highlighting the darker side of fixation.
- In 'Crime and Punishment', Raskolnikovโs obsessional guilt drives the plot and his character's development.
Pop Culture
- Music often reflects obsession, with many songs exploring themes of love and fixation, like 'Obsessed' by Mariah Carey.
- Films like 'Fatal Attraction' portray obsession as a dangerous force, creating gripping drama and tension.
- Reality TV can sometimes highlight obsession as contestants become fixated on winning, revealing the lengths people will go to.
History
- Throughout history, notable figures such as Vincent van Gogh and Howard Hughes were noted for their obsessive behaviors in their crafts.
- The cult of personality around personalities like Andy Warhol showed how obsession with fame and art can intertwine.
- Obsessive behaviors were historically viewed with suspicion or concern, leading to stigmas that still affect society today.
Science
- Neuroscientific studies indicate that certain brain areas are activated during obsessive thinking, which can help understand the condition.
- Some scientists believe that obsession can be traced to evolutionary traits that made our ancestors more focused on survival.
- Research suggests that genetics play a role in predisposition to obsessive behaviors, linking them to family histories.
Origin of 'obsessional'
The word 'obsessional' is derived from the term 'obsession', which originates from the Latin 'obsessio', meaning 'a siege' or 'to besiege'. This Latin term combines 'ob-', meaning 'against', and 'sedere', meaning 'to sit'. Historically, the word was used in English to describe being occupied or besieged by thoughts. By the late 16th century, 'obsession' began to take on a psychological meaning, referring to a persistent idea or impulse that dominates a person's mind. The adjective 'obsessional' started being used to describe behaviors or thoughts associated with such conditions, especially in the context of mental health. As psychological understanding evolved, so did the use of the term, leading to its modern application in describing compulsive behaviors and thought patterns.