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Identification, Psychological MeSH Descriptor Data 2026
A process by which an individual unconsciously endeavors to pattern himself after another. This process is also important in the development of the personality, particularly the superego or conscience, which is modeled largely on the behavior of adult significant others.
Entry Term(s)
Identification (Psychology)
Identification, Psychology
Previous Indexing
Defense Mechanisms (1966-1967)
Personality (1966-1967)
Public MeSH Note
2020; was IDENTIFICATION (PSYCHOLOGY) 1968-2019; see DEFENSE MECHANISMS 1963-1967
History Note
2020 (1968); was IDENTIFICATION (PSYCHOLOGY) 1968-2019; use DEFENSE MECHANISMS 1963-1967
A process by which an individual unconsciously endeavors to pattern himself after another. This process is also important in the development of the personality, particularly the superego or conscience, which is modeled largely on the behavior of adult significant others.