Extreme dependence on another person or persons for emotional support. The model for an anaclitic relationship is the infant’s dependence on the mother for his well-being andgratification. In psychoanalysis the term “anaclitic object choice” denotes selection of a mate or other love object who resembles the mother or other person who has provided comfort and support during early childhood.
Cite this page: N., Sam M.S., "ANACLITIC," in PsychologyDictionary.org, November 28, 2018, https://psychologydictionary.org/anaclitic/ (accessed March 22, 2023).
