refractory state

is a brief psychological state , for example when we are angry, characterized by our thinking being unable to incorporate information that does not fit, maintain, or justify the emotion we are feeling.

For a while we are in a refractory state, during which time our thinking cannot incorporate information that does not fit, maintain, or justify the emotion we are feeling. This refractory state may be of more benefit than harm if it is brief, lasting for only a second or two. In that short window it focuses our attention on the problem at hand, using the most relevant knowledge that can guide our initial actions, as well as preparations for further actions. (Ekmann 1999 : 56)

refractory state, n.Definitions

refractory state