| obsession | <psychiatry> A recurrent, persistent thought, image or impulse that is unwanted and distressing (ego dystonic) and comes involuntarily to mind despite attempts to ignore or suppress it. Common obsessions involve thoughts of violence, contamination and self doubt. Origin: L. Obsessio (18 Nov 1997) |
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| impulsive | 1. Having the power of driving or impelling; giving an impulse; moving; impellent. "Poor men! poor papers! We and they Do some impulsive force obey." (Prior) 2. Actuated by impulse or by transient feelings. "My heart, impulsive and wayward." (Longfellow) 3. <mechanics> Acting momentarily, or by impulse; not continuous; said of forces. Origin: Cf. F. Impulsif. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
| impulsive behaviour | An act performed without delay, reflection, voluntary direction or obvious control in response to a stimulus. (12 Dec 1998) |