Mind-link

A mind-link is a temporary psychic connection forged between the minds of two separate individuals.

It is formed, in part, telepathically, and allows the parties involved to share the entirety of each others thoughts, memories and emotions.

More than merely telepathic communication, a mind-link effectively merges two minds into one, creating a gestalt for as long as the link lasts. Usually, at least one of the individuals involved must be a telepath of some skill, though it is conceivable that a similar effect could be achieved through the use of technology. The exception to this is the intervention of a third party telepath, who can act as a psionic bridge between the two minds. The emotional intensity of the experience means that mind-links are typically short in duration, usually ending when the dominant telepath breaks the link.

This practice is associated almost exclusively with Vulcans (who refer to it as a mind meld) but it is likely that telepaths from other species would also be capable of forging a mind-link.

It is possible for a telepath to force an unwilling individual into a mind-link, but to do so without the consent of the other party is generally considered a gross violation.

The forging of a mind-link is considered an extremely intimate act, so it is more common for it to be performed between two individuals with a pre-existing emotional bond.