secondary process
The rational, logical mode of thinking governed by the reality principle and characteristic of conscious mental activity.
Full Definition
Secondary process thinking represents the mature, reality-oriented cognitive functioning that develops as the ego gains strength and learns to mediate between internal drives and external demands. Unlike primary process thinking, which is illogical, timeless, and governed by the pleasure principle, secondary process follows rules of logic, causality, and temporal sequence. It involves delay of gratification, reality testing, and the use of language and symbols in conventional ways. This mode of thinking enables problem-solving, planning, and adaptation to social reality, and is dominant in normal waking consciousness.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenated when used as an adjective; contrast with primary process throughout clinical writing.
In Context
- "The patient's improved secondary process functioning allowed better impulse control and planning." — Treatment outcome assessment
- "Dreams reveal primary process content disguised by secondary process revision." — Dream analysis theory