Negativism

Negativism is a psychological and psychiatric term that refers to a tendency to resist suggestions or commands given by others. It is often associated with certain mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, depression, and personality disorders. Negativism can manifest in various ways, including verbal negation, physical resistance, or complete non-compliance.

Definition

Negativism is defined as a tendency to resist suggestions, commands, or advice from others. This resistance can be passive, such as ignoring the suggestion or command, or active, such as doing the opposite of what is suggested or commanded. Negativism is often seen in individuals with certain mental disorders, but it can also be a normal part of human behavior.

Clinical Significance

In the field of psychiatry, negativism is often associated with certain mental disorders. For example, it is one of the symptoms of catatonic schizophrenia, a subtype of schizophrenia characterized by a marked decrease in voluntary movement and responsiveness to external stimuli. Negativism can also be seen in individuals with depression, where it may manifest as a pervasive negative outlook on life, and in individuals with certain personality disorders, where it may manifest as a chronic pattern of resisting authority or rejecting societal norms.

Treatment

Treatment for negativism often involves addressing the underlying mental disorder. This can involve psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. In some cases, individuals may also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help them to identify and change negative thought patterns.

See Also

• Catatonic schizophrenia
• Depression
• Personality disorders
• Psychotherapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy

References

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