Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Verbigeration / Español: Verbigéración / Português: Verbigeración / Français: Verbigeration / Italiano: Verbigerazione /

Verbigeration is defined as obsessive repetition of meaningless words and phrases.

In psychology, verbigeration refers to a type of speech disorder characterized by the repetition of words or phrases, often without any clear meaning or purpose. It is most commonly observed in individuals with certain neurological or psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia, autism, or dementia.

Here are some examples of verbigeration:

1. A person with schizophrenia may repeat a particular phrase over and over again, even when it does not make sense in the context of the conversation. For example, they may repeatedly say "the purple elephant is flying" without any explanation or context.

2. A person with autism may engage in echolalia, a type of verbigeration in which they repeat words or phrases they have heard others say. For example, they may repeat a question or statement that was just made to them, rather than answering or responding appropriately.

3. A person with dementia may repeat certain words or phrases as a way of coping with memory loss or confusion. For example, they may repeatedly ask "what time is it?" or say "I don't remember" in response to questions or statements.

4. A person with a traumatic brain injury may engage in perseveration, a type of verbigeration in which they repeat a particular word or phrase, even when it is no longer relevant or appropriate to the conversation. For example, they may repeatedly say "I'm sorry" even when no apology is necessary.

Overall, verbigeration is a symptom of a broader neurological or psychiatric condition and is often associated with other cognitive or behavioral disturbances. It can be distressing for both the individual experiencing it and their caregivers or loved ones, and may require medical or behavioral intervention.