Cathexis - Libido

cathexis (k-thek'sis)
n. pl. ca·thex·es (-thek'sez)
Definition: Concentration of emotional energy on an object or idea.
Synonyms: charge
Usage: Freud thought of cathexis as a psychic analog of an electrical charge.

[Greek kathexis, holding, retention, from katekhein, to hold fast : kat-, kata-, intensive pref.; see cata- + ekhein, to hold; see segh- in Indo-European roots.]

Related Words:depth psychology, psychoanalysis, analysis - a set of techniques for exploring underlying motives and a method of treating various mental disorders; based on the theories of Sigmund Freud; "his physician recommended psychoanalysis"
libidinal energy - (psychoanalysis) psychic energy produced by the *libido.

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In psychodynamics, cathexis is defined as the process of investment of mental or emotional energy in a person, object, or idea. This concept was developed by Sigmund Freud in 1922. In psychoanalysis, cathexis is the libido's charge of energy.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathexis

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*Libido in its common usage means sexual desire; however, more technical definitions, such as those found in the work of Carl Jung, are more general, referring to libido as the free creative—or psychic—energy an individual has to put toward personal development or individuation. It should be noted that the primary usage is in reference to sexual desire.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Libido