Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

loosening-of-associations

noun

/ˈluːsənɪŋ ʌv əˌsəʊʃiˈeɪʃənz/

Definition

A psychological and psychiatric term referring to a cognitive process in which thoughts, ideas, or concepts appear to be less connected or coherent, leading to disorganized thinking.

Examples

During the therapy session, the patient exhibited loosening of associations, jumping from one topic to another without context.
The psychologist noted that the client’s speech was characterized by a loosening of associations, indicating possible underlying issues.

Meaning

The term describes a state where a person’s thoughts are fragmented or disconnected, often as a symptom of certain mental health disorders, making communication and understanding challenging.