ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Fixation (psychology)

Fixation is when you get stuck on something and can't let it go, kind of like when you're playing with a toy and you don't want to stop even when it's time to go to bed.

In psychology, fixation is when your brain gets stuck on a certain thought, feeling or behavior. For example, if you keep thinking about a certain person or thing all the time and it's affecting your daily life, you might be fixated on that thing.

Fixation can be good or bad. When you're fixated on something positive, like your favorite hobby or goal, it can help you stay focused and achieve what you want. But when you're fixated on something negative, like an unhealthy relationship or addiction, it can be harmful to your mental and emotional wellbeing.

When people try to break free from a fixation, it can be difficult because their brain has become used to thinking and behaving a certain way. It often takes time, effort, and support from others to break the cycle and move forward.