Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
perseveration
The inappropriate repetition of a response or behavior despite changed circumstances.
Full Definition
Perseveration is a neuropsychological symptom characterized by the continued repetition of a particular response, word, phrase, or behavior after the eliciting stimulus has ceased or when circumstances have changed requiring a different response. This phenomenon is commonly associated with frontal lobe dysfunction and executive function deficits. Perseveration can manifest in various forms including motor, verbal, or conceptual repetitions and significantly impacts daily functioning and task performance.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type of perseveration (verbal, motor, conceptual) and document specific examples and contexts.
In Context
- "Perseveration was observed on the card-sorting task, with the patient continuing to sort by color despite rule changes." — Cognitive assessment report
- "Verbal perseveration was noted throughout the interview, with the patient repeatedly returning to the same phrase regardless of the question asked." — Clinical evaluation
Also known as
stuck-in-set behavior
response persistence
Contrasted with
cognitive flexibility
set-shifting ability
Don't confuse with
repetition
echolalia
stereotypy