Which literary term refers to a novel that emphasizes the psychological motivations and mental states of its characters?

The term that best describes a novel emphasizing the psychological motivations and mental states of its characters is "Psychological Novel." This classification highlights works that delve deeply into the internal thoughts, feelings, and emotional experiences of characters, revealing how these aspects influence their actions and relationships.

Psychological novels often employ techniques that allow readers to explore characters' inner lives, making the narrative focused on aspects such as consciousness, perception, and emotional conflict. This genre aims to present a nuanced understanding of human behavior, moving beyond mere plot to engage with the complexities of the human psyche.

While "Psychoanalytic Novel" might seem like a strong contender, it specifically relates to narratives that utilize psychoanalytic theories—like those proposed by Freud—focusing on unconscious motivations rather than the broader category of psychological exploration. "Character Study" refers more generally to an analysis or portrayal of a character rather than a complete narrative structure. "Interior Monologue," on the other hand, refers specifically to technique where a character's thoughts are presented directly, which can be a component of a psychological novel but does not encompass the complete genre itself.