theory

1. a principle or body of interrelated principles that purports to explain or predict a number of interrelated phenomena. See construct; model.

2. in the philosophy of science, a set of logically related explanatory hypotheses that are consistent with a body of empirical facts and that may suggest more empirical relationships. See scientific explanation.

3. in general usage, abstract or speculative thought as opposed to practice. —theoretical adj.

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Psychology term of the day

April 25th 2024

least restrictive alternative

the U.S. legal directive that less treatment rather than more (e.g., community care vs. hospitalization) is the most desirable objective in treating people with a chronic mental disorder. The principal consideration is combining safety concerns with the minimum level of restrictions on personal liberty. This position was emphasized in two decisions of U.S. Court of Appeals Judge David L. Bazelon (1910–1993) in 1966: Rouse v. Cameron and Lake v. Cameron.