thought blocking
Sudden interruption in thought process where the patient stops speaking mid-sentence and cannot recall what they were saying.
Full Definition
Thought blocking is a formal thought disorder characterized by sudden, abrupt interruptions in the flow of thinking, where the patient stops speaking mid-sentence or mid-thought and appears unable to continue or recall what they were discussing. This phenomenon differs from normal pauses or word-finding difficulties; patients typically describe their mind going 'blank' or thoughts being 'taken away.' Thought blocking is commonly associated with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, though it can occur in severe depression or anxiety. During assessment, patients may appear confused or distressed by the interruption and often cannot resume their original thought. The symptom may be accompanied by other formal thought disorders such as loosening of associations or poverty of thought.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from normal word-finding pauses or thought withdrawal delusions - document the patient's subjective experience.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated thought blocking during the interview, stopping mid-sentence and appearing confused about what she had been discussing." — mental status examination
- "Thought blocking episodes decreased significantly after antipsychotic medication adjustment." — treatment response note