Definition

This term refers to the process of experiencing and expressing emotions related to a past event, often to help release or cleanse those feelings. It usually happens during therapy when someone talks about their repressed thoughts or feelings.

Example

During therapy, she experienced an abreaction that helped her confront her past trauma.

Conversation

I heard that talking about past experiences can help with emotional healing.

Yeah, it’s called abreaction, right?

Exactly! I think expressing those feelings can be really therapeutic.

For sure, it’s a great way to let go of old emotions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Abreaction is formed from "ab-" (meaning away from) and "reactio" (from Latin, meaning to act in response). The term describes the process of releasing emotional tension by recalling and expressing feelings associated with a traumatic event, thus acting away from the repressed emotions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'acting away from' ('ab-') something that has caused emotional distress, which helps you remember that 'abreaction' is about releasing those feelings.

Visually Confused Words