PERSEVERATION Meaning and
Definition
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Perseveration is a cognitive phenomenon characterized by the persistent repetition of a particular thought, word, phrase, or behavior. It refers to the inability to switch tasks or shift focus, resulting in the continued engagement with a specific idea or action beyond its typical duration or relevance. Individuals who exhibit perseveration tend to get "stuck" in a particular mode of thinking or behaving, often repeating the same question, statement, or action over and over again.
This term is commonly used in psychology and neurology to describe a symptom observed in various conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), traumatic brain injuries, or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. Perseveration can manifest in different ways, including verbal repetitions during conversations, repetitive body movements or gestures, recurrent rumination, or being fixated on a particular topic or idea.
Perseveration can impair both social interactions and daily functioning, as it often disrupts communication and inhibits the ability to flexibly adapt to changing circumstances. It can be frustrating for the individual experiencing it and challenging for those interacting with them.
Treatment for perseveration typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy, depending on the underlying condition or cause. These interventions aim to improve cognitive flexibility, attention, and social skills, helping individuals reduce or manage perseverative behaviors and enhance their overall quality of life.
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1. The constant repetition of a meaningless word or phrase. 2. The duration of a mental impression, measured by the rapidity with which one impression follows another as determined by the revolving of a two-colored disc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PERSEVERATION
- oerseveration
- lerseveration
- -erseveration
- 0erseveration
- pwrseveration
- psrseveration
- pdrseveration
- prrseveration
- p4rseveration
- p3rseveration
- peeseveration
- pedseveration
- pefseveration
- petseveration
- pe5severation
- pe4severation
- peraeveration
- perzeveration
- perxeveration
Etymology of PERSEVERATION
The word "perseveration" is derived from the Latin term "perseveratio", which is a noun form of the verb "perseverare". "Perseverare" is a compound of the prefix "per-" meaning "through" or "thoroughly", and the verb "severus" meaning "strict" or "severe". Thus, "perseverare" can be translated as "to be strict or severe throughout" or "to persist". The English word "perseveration" retains this meaning and refers to the tendency to persistently repeat a particular response, word, or action, often in a repetitive and intrusive manner.
Similar spelling words for PERSEVERATION
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