One’s evaluation of an event or situation. Is also sometimes used to refer to dream analysis.

Example: A group of people witnesses a couple having a heated argument at the mall. One bystander decides they must be lovers having an impassioned quarrel; another witness concludes that the woman is being harassed by a man she doesn’t know.

    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 24 Jan 2009