avolition
Pronunciation: ay-vo-LISH-un
A negative symptom of schizophrenia characterized by lack of motivation and reduced goal-directed activity.
Full Definition
Avolition refers to the reduction or absence of motivation to initiate and sustain goal-directed activities. This negative symptom of schizophrenia manifests as decreased interest in work, education, self-care, or social activities that the person previously engaged in. Patients may spend long periods sitting idle, show poor grooming and hygiene, or fail to complete tasks they have started. Avolition differs from depression-related apathy in that it typically occurs without the mood symptoms characteristic of depressive disorders and is often accompanied by other negative symptoms such as alogia and affective flattening.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from depression by noting absence of mood symptoms and presence of other negative symptoms.
In Context
- "The patient's avolition was evident in his inability to maintain employment or personal hygiene." — Psychiatric evaluation
- "Avolition proved more treatment-resistant than the positive symptoms of psychosis." — Progress note