Definition of Neurotic: Neurotic refers to a condition or personality trait characterized by chronic anxiety or emotional instability. It encompasses a range of mental and emotional disorders that are not severe enough to cause gross personality disintegration or psychosis. These disorders typically manifest as acute distress, anxiety, obsessive behaviour, hypochondria, and varying degrees of depression.
Etymology and Origin: The term ‘neurotic’ is derived from the Greek word ‘neuron’, meaning ‘nerve’, and was first used in the late 18th century. The term was initially used in a medical context to describe disorders thought to be caused by a dysfunction in the nervous system. Over time, its usage has expanded in psychology to describe a broad range of mental and emotional states that are distressing but not psychotic.
