Pronunciation: [fɪksˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
"Fixation" is spelled as /fɪkˈseɪʃən/. The word has a few phonetic complexities due to the presence of the "x" sound. The "x" can be pronounced as /ks/ or /gz/ in English, and in the case of "fixation", it is pronounced as /ks/. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is emphasized by the long /eɪ/ sound. This term refers to a state of being overly focused or obsessed with one particular thing or idea.
Fixation refers to a psychological concept and can be defined as a persistent preoccupation or attachment to a certain object, person, idea, or behavior. It is characterized by a strong and often irrational fixation on a specific aspect that dominates an individual's thoughts, feelings, or actions. This intense focus can lead to a narrow and obsessive attention on the chosen subject matter.
In psychology, fixation is believed to emerge during the early stages of development, particularly during the oral, anal, and phallic phases outlined in Freud's psychosexual theory. These stages are crucial in shaping an individual's personality and are marked by potential conflicts which, if unresolved, can manifest as fixations in adulthood. For example, a fixation during the oral stage may result in a person being excessively dependent or possessive, seeking constant satisfaction through overeating or smoking.
Fixations can also occur in other areas of life, such as in relationships or interests. Someone who experiences fixation may exhibit a limited ability to adapt to change or alternative perspectives. This can lead to repetitive behaviors, rigid thinking patterns, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships or pursuing diverse interests.
Nonetheless, fixation can also have positive aspects. In certain fields, fixation is synonymous with expertise or specialization, where individuals develop a deep knowledge and proficiency in a specific area. It can also serve as a motivator, driving individuals to pursue a particular goal relentlessly. However, when fixation becomes excessive or obstructive to one's well-being and personal growth, professional intervention or therapy may be necessary to address and mitigate its effects.
1. The condition of being fixed or firmly attached or set. 2. The art of fixing or making firm. 3. In histology, the rapid killing of tissue elements and their hardening, so that they are preserved in the same relations they had in the living body. 4. In chemistry, the solidification of a gas on uniting with a solid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Stability.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "fixation" is derived from the Latin term "fixatio", which comes from the verb "fixare". The Latin word "fixus" means "fixed" or "fastened", and "fixare" means "to fix" or "to fasten". The term was first introduced into English in the mid-17th century, primarily in the context of fixation as a psychological concept. It refers to the persistent attachment, preoccupation, or obsession with an idea, object, or person.
