Literally, leaning on. In psychoanalytic terminology, anaclitic attachment refers to the complete dependence of one person on another for his or her well-being (as in the infant’s dependence on the mother). Such attachment is normal in childhood but pathological in later years.
Literally, leaning on. In psychoanalytic terminology, dependence of the infant on the mother or mother substitute for a sense of well-being (e.g., gratification through nursing). Normal behavior in childhood, pathological in later years if excessive.
Leaning or depending on. In psychoanalysis, pert, to the dependence of an infant on the mother figure for care.