noun
brainwashing
BRAYN-wawsh-ing/ˈbreɪnwɔːʃɪŋ/
Manipulation or coercion used to impose beliefs or attitudes.
The instructor uses repetition and isolation as tools of brainwashing.
Etymology
Brainwashing pictures coercive belief change as washing the mind. It is said to be a literal translation of Chinese xi nao, used for psychological attempts to control other people's thoughts against their will.
In context
impression ability is high during that developmental stage and quote in other words brainwashing is easier when they're little talk about the pot calling the kettle black of all people to denounce propaganda
More examples
- The group uses brainwashing to make members reject outside advice.
- Survivors describe threats and sleep deprivation as part of the brainwashing.
- She calls the constant pressure to adopt their beliefs brainwashing.
Forms
brainwashing
brainwash verb — To impose beliefs through coercion or manipulation.
Similar words
- indoctrination
- Emphasizes teaching beliefs uncritically, without necessarily using coercion.
- manipulation
- Influences people deceptively, without necessarily imposing a belief system.