a psychiatric interview technique whereby the client provides an autobiographical account of his or her history and difficulties, while the therapist listens for key words and expressions. These key phrases are then used to create an associative linkage that will bring the client closer to the unconscious roots of his or her disturbances. See also sectortherapy.
ASSOCIATIVE ANAMNESIS: “A person engaging in associative anamnesis will uncover the root of his or her problems by providing an autobiographical account to the therapist, who picks out key linkages and phrases.”