Intermediate
Technical
IVT
tangentiality
Pronunciation: tan-jen-she-AL-ih-tee
A thought disorder where responses begin relevantly but gradually drift away from the original question or topic.
Full Definition
Tangentiality is a form of formal thought disorder characterized by responses that start appropriately but gradually veer away from the intended topic or question, never returning to the original point. Unlike circumstantiality where the speaker eventually returns to the main point, tangential speech continues on a divergent path. This symptom can be observed in various psychiatric conditions including schizophrenia, mania, and sometimes in personality disorders or cognitive impairment.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from circumstantiality by noting whether the speaker returns to the original topic.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated tangentiality when asked about her mood, beginning with feelings but ending with a detailed account of her neighbor's garden." — psychiatric interview
- "Mild tangentiality was noted during the interview but did not significantly impair communication." — assessment report
Also known as
tangential speech
tangential thinking
Contrasted with
goal-directed speech
Don't confuse with
circumstantiality
derailment
flight of ideas