Glossary
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AcculturationAcculturation is the process of cultural and psychological change that occurs when individuals or groups come into sustained, first-hand contact with a different culture, adopting its traits (language, customs, behaviours) while retaining their own. It involves adapting to a new environment, balancing their own traditions with the dominant culture. |
AffectA person's observed (moment to moment) externally emotional expression which may be demonstrated through gestures, body language and facial expressions. Compare to definition of mood. |
AkathisiaA condition characterised by motor restlessness. For example, restless legs, rocking from foot to foot, aching legs, pacing, or inability to sit or stand. Symptoms develop within a few weeks of starting or raising the dose of a neuroleptic medication or of reducing the dose of medication used to treat extra-pyramidal symptoms. |
AltertnessAlertness (level of consciousness) refers to an individual's ability to be aware of (and respond to) the environment around them. |
AnhedoniaLoss of interest in
and withdrawal from all regular and pleasurable activities. In evaluating
anhedonia, inquiring whether the person has lost the sense of pleasure is not
enough. The clinician must document that the person has actually given up
previously enjoyed pastimes. When mild, anhedonia evidences with a decreased
interest in life. Later, persons complain that they have lost all interest in
things. |
AnxietyApprehension, tension, or uneasiness from anticipation of perceived real threat/danger. May be regarded as clinically relevant when it interferes with effectiveness in living, achievement of desired goals or satisfaction, or reasonable emotional comfort. |
Apathy / apatheticDulled emotional tone
associated with detachment or indifference; seen in certain types of
schizophrenia and depression. |
Apparent ageHow old the person
looks compared to their actual age. |
AppearanceAppearance refers to the physical characteristics of the person. In the Mental State Examination, the component of appearance includes:
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Attention and concentrationAbility to sustain focus on one activity. A disturbance in attention may appear as having difficulty in finishing tasks that have been started, being easily distracted, or having difficulty in concentrating. |