Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

perseveration

noun

/ˌpɜːrsəˈvɛrɪʃən/

Definition

The repetition of a particular response, despite the absence or cessation of a stimulus.

Examples

His perseveration on past mistakes made it difficult for him to move forward.
The child exhibited perseveration by repeating the same question over and over.
In therapy, the psychologist addressed her patient’s perseveration on negative thoughts.

Meaning

Perseveration refers to the persistent focus on or continuation of a behavior or thought that has already been concluded. This term is often used in psychology to describe a condition where a person cannot shift their attention away from a thought or action.