Propensity

pro·pen·si·ty (pr-pns-t)
n. pl. pro·pen·si·ties
An innate inclination; a tendency. See Synonyms at predilection.

propensity

Noun

pl -ties Formal a natural tendency: his problem had always been a propensity to live beyond his means

Specter

spec·ter (spktr)
n.
1. A ghostly apparition; a phantom.
2. A haunting or disturbing image or prospect: the terrible specter of nuclear war.

Slay

slay (sl)
tr.v. slew (sl), slain (sln), slay·ing, slays
1. To kill violently.
2. past tense and past participle often slayed Slang To overwhelm, as with laughter or love: Those old jokes still slay me.

Catharsis

A release of emotional tension, as after an overwhelming experience, that restores or refreshes the spirit.
4. Psychology
a. A technique used to relieve tension and anxiety by bringing repressed feelings and fears to consciousness.
b. The therapeutic result of this process; abreaction.