condensation
A primary process mechanism where multiple thoughts or images are compressed into a single dream element or symptom.
Full Definition
Condensation is one of the fundamental mechanisms of primary process thinking identified by Freud in dream analysis and symptom formation. It involves the compression of multiple unconscious ideas, memories, or conflicts into a single manifest element, creating overdetermined symbols that carry multiple meanings simultaneously. In dreams, a single person might represent several different individuals from the dreamer's life, or a single image might condense various emotional themes. This mechanism allows the unconscious to circumvent censorship by disguising multiple forbidden contents within seemingly innocent manifest forms.
Usage
Usage note: In psychoanalytic contexts, distinct from the physical process of water condensation.
In Context
- "The dream figure appeared to be a condensation of the patient's mother and former teacher." — Dream interpretation
- "Her symptom represented a condensation of guilt, anger, and forbidden desire." — Symptom analysis