PsychologyJuly 25, 2026

abdication

ab-di-KAY-shun

Definition

The act of formally relinquishing or failing to fulfill a responsibility, duty, or power that one is expected to uphold.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'abdicare', meaning 'to disavow' or 'renounce', which combines 'ab-' (away) and 'dicare' (to proclaim or dedicate).

In the news

The author contrasts individual responsibility with 'institutional abdication,' arguing that workplaces fail their employees when they shift the burden of systemic health issues onto individuals.

Beyond Self-Care: Workplace Approaches to Mental Health

Read the full article ↗

psychologytoday.com

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