compartmentalization

Definitions

The act of dividing something into sections or categories.

A psychological defense mechanism in which thoughts and emotions that conflict are kept separate from one another to avoid cognitive dissonance.

Examples

The psychologist explained that his compartmentalization of traumatic memories was a coping mechanism to help him function daily.

Effective time management often requires the compartmentalization of tasks so that one project does not overwhelm the others.

Her strict compartmentalization of work and personal life ensured that she never checked emails while at home with her family.

Synonyms

categorization segmentation partitioning classification separation isolation subdivision

Antonyms

integration unification synthesis amalgamation fusion coalescence connection