anaclitic Definition
relating to or characterized by a strong emotional dependence on another person, especially following separation from one's mother or primary caregiver.
Using anaclitic: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "anaclitic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The child's anaclitic behavior was concerning to the therapist.
Example
She had an anaclitic attachment to her partner, relying heavily on them for emotional support.
Example
The patient's anaclitic depression was treated with therapy and medication.
anaclitic Synonyms and Antonyms
Antonyms for anaclitic
- independent
- self-sufficient
Phrases with anaclitic
a type of depression characterized by feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and despair that result from a lack of emotional support or nurturing in early childhood
Example
The patient's anaclitic depression was treated with therapy and medication.
a personality type characterized by a strong need for emotional support and nurturing from others
Example
Her anaclitic personality made it difficult for her to be alone for long periods of time.
a relationship in which one person is emotionally dependent on the other
Example
Their anaclitic relationship was unhealthy and codependent.
Origins of anaclitic
from Greek 'anaklitos', meaning 'leaning upon'
Summary: anaclitic in Brief
'Anaclitic' [an-uh-kli-tik] describes a strong emotional dependence on another person, often resulting from separation from one's mother or primary caregiver. It is used to describe behaviors, attachments, and depression, as in 'The child's anaclitic behavior was concerning to the therapist.' 'Anaclitic' extends into phrases like 'anaclitic depression,' 'anaclitic personality,' and 'anaclitic relationship,' all denoting emotional dependence.
