In geology, subduction is the process that takes place at convergent boundaries by which one tectonic plate moves under another tectonic plate… (Wikipedia)
Now I understand that quite literally, subduction is a process whereby one thing goes underneath another; and while figuratively an emotional state being subdued by another state or a more pressing need as enforced by the superego might be considered a careful use of literary license, I would like to know if there is a less grandiose word for this state.
How can I describe the mind state of when one emotion is subdued, perhaps subverted, by another? In particular, this is in reference to the state where one wants to become aggressive, but ends up despondent because the vulnerability of aggression subverts its exercise.
Best Answer
The term sublimation is related:
As suggested in a comment, to "be in a state of sublimation" is of questionable form. Yes, one may experience sublimation, and one may say an emotion was sublimated.
More generally, sublimation might be a defense mechanism.
Or it might be a coping strategy: