Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

perseveration

noun

/ˌpɜːrsəˈverəˌʃən/

Definition

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

Examples

The child’s perseveration made it hard for him to move on to other tasks.
In therapy, the psychologist noted the patient’s tendency toward perseveration on past failures.
Perseveration can be observed in individuals with certain neurological conditions.

Meaning

Perseveration refers to a cognitive phenomenon where an individual continues to focus on the same thought, idea, or activity, even when it no longer makes sense to do so.