Schizophrenic

/ˌskɪtsəˈfrɛnɪk/ adjective, noun

Definition

Related to schizophrenia, a serious mental condition affecting how someone thinks and perceives reality; also used to describe something with contradictory or split elements.

Etymology

From Greek 'schizein' (to split) and 'phren' (mind), literally 'split mind,' coined in 1911 as a replacement for the older term 'dementia praecox.'

Kelly Says

Schizophrenia doesn't actually mean 'split personality'—that's a common misconception—it means the mind's different functions (thought, emotion, perception) become disconnected, which is why the term is now considered outdated by many psychiatrists.

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