parataxic distortion


Also found in: Medical.

parataxic distortion

[¦par·ə¦tak·sik di′stȯr·shən]
(psychology)
A perceptual or judgmental distortion of interpersonal relations resulting from the observer's need to pattern his responses on previous experiences and thus defend himself against anxiety.
References in periodicals archive ?
Employing an integrated approach, this stage focuses on identifying client's dynamics, including life-style, goals, private logic, and parataxic distortions.
Parataxic distortions are inappropriate ways of reacting to others and are based on previous experiences, usually in the family of origin (Sullivan, 1953).
Interpersonal manifestations of lifestyle: Individual Psychology integrated with Interpersonal Theory
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