neurotische

Neurotische is a term with roots in psychology, stemming from the concept of neurosis. Historically, neurosis referred to a class of mental disorders characterized by distress but not by the delusions or hallucinations seen in psychosis. Individuals experiencing neurosis were typically aware of their distressing thoughts and behaviors, even if they found them difficult to control. Symptoms often included anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, and compulsive behaviors. The term "neurotic" itself is used to describe a personality trait associated with a tendency to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, anger, moodiness, and worry. Individuals high in neuroticism are more prone to stress and are often seen as emotionally reactive.

In contemporary psychology, the term neurosis is largely outdated and has been replaced by more specific diagnostic categories within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). For example, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and depressive disorders now encompass many of the conditions previously classified as neuroses. However, the adjective "neurotic" still persists in common language and some psychological contexts to describe a personality disposition characterized by emotional instability and a propensity for experiencing negative affect. Understanding this historical and evolving usage is key to comprehending the term.