Pronunciation: [pˈaθəmə] (IPA) 
The word "pathema" is spelled as /pæθɪmə/. The first syllable is pronounced with an open back unrounded vowel /æ/ followed by the voiceless dental fricative /θ/. The second syllable starts with the unstressed vowel known as the schwa /ə/ and ends with the voiced bilabial plosive /m/. The correct spelling of this word is crucial for effective communication as it refers to a pathological condition or disease that affects the body or mind.
Pathema refers to a term used in the field of psychology to describe an intense and transient emotional state or experience. Derived from the Greek word "pathos," meaning suffering or passion, pathema is characterized by a heightened emotional reaction to a particular situation or stimulus. It is often associated with intense negative emotions such as anger, sadness, fear, or despair.
A pathema is typically experienced as a sudden and overwhelming emotional response that may be triggered by various factors such as traumatic events, personal losses, or extreme stress. It is distinguished from a general emotional state by its intensity, brevity, and the specific trigger that incites it.
This concept is often used in the context of psychotherapy and mental health research to better understand and address emotional reactions in individuals. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and processing these intense emotional experiences to promote psychological well-being and resilience.
Moreover, pathema encompasses the idea that intense emotions, even if negative, can serve a meaningful purpose in an individual's life. It suggests that pathemas can provide valuable insights into one's inner world, facilitating personal growth, self-awareness, and ultimately, emotional healing.
Overall, pathema signifies a transient and intense emotional state that captures the multifaceted nature of human emotions, allowing for a deeper understanding of emotional well-being and emotional responses in various contexts.
Any disease or morbid condition.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pathema" is primarily derived from Greek. It comes from the Greek word "pathos" (πάθος), which means "suffering", "experience", or "feeling". The -ma suffix is used to create a noun from a verb or adjective stem. Therefore, "pathema" can be translated as "something experienced" or "something suffered".
