What is abreaction

abreaction n. the release of strong emo¬tion commonly associated with a buried memory. While this can happen sponta¬neously, it is usually deliberately produced by a therapist using psychotherapy or hyp¬nosis. The technique is used as a treatment for conversion disorder, anxiety state, and other neurotic conditions, especially when they are thought to be caused by "repres¬sion of memories or emotions.