DISTAL RESPONSE
The response an organism has that has an effect on the environment. Compare proimal response.
DISTRACTOR
A stimulus or an aspect of it that is not needed for the task being performed. See also visual attention.
DISUSE SUPERSENSITIVITY
Condition where target cells lose neural input through denervation or the application of an antagonist drug that produces more receptor…
DIVINATION
The practice or art of seeing future events or some hidden knowledge using supernatural means. Also called divine right of…
DOOR-IN-THE-FACE TECHNIQUE
Two step procedure used to enhance compliance by using an extreme request presented first anf a more moderate request presented…
DORSAL HORN
The areas of grey matter in the posterior spinal cord that extend to the dorsal roots.
DOUBLE CONSCIOUSNESS
The condition with 2 distinct and unrelated mental states coexist in a person.
DOWN-REGULATION
The decrease in the number of receptor molecules in an area. See up-regulation.
DREAM ANALYSIS
Interpretation of dream content to reveal any underlying motivations, symbolic meanings or representations. Also called dream interpretation.
DRIFT HYPOTHESIS
A sociological concept used to explain the higher incidence of schizophrenia in urban poverty centres.
DUAL CONSCIOUSNESS, DOUBLE DECEPTION
An embedded deception where a research participant thinks he is in the debriefing episode but it is not. See deception…
DUE PROCESS RIGHTS, DUE PROCESS MODEL
The view in legal processes that the rights of the accused and fair procedures need to be used and considered.…
DUTY TO PROTECT
Obligation of mental health professionals to protect third parties from harm.
DYNAMIC INTERACTIONISM
A model of behaviour and personality where development depends on a continuous and reciprocal interaction with the environment.
DYSAUTONOMIA
A dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system that includes impairment, failure or an over activity of the sympathetic or parasympathetic…
DYSOSTOSIS
The development of the skeleton that is effected by hereditary factors or due to improper care after birth. Usually sen…