Automatism (psychology)

Automatism in psychology refers to actions performed without conscious control or awareness. This can occur in various situations, such as sleepwalking or during certain medical conditions, where a person might engage in complex behaviors without realizing it. In legal contexts, automatism can be a defense for criminal behavior, suggesting that the individual was not mentally aware of their actions due to a temporary state, like a seizure or extreme stress. Essentially, automatism highlights instances where unconscious processes drive behavior, separating those actions from intentional decision-making.