Why Does Perseveration Occur?

Perseveration occurs when the patient is unable to shift responses easily or appropriately in one or all modalities. For example, a patient may say a certain word as a response to all questions posed, or they may have difficulty using an object in a novel way and insist on using it in a certain manner.

Why does perseveration happen?

Perseveration after brain injury can cause someone to continuously repeat actions, words, or thoughts. It is thought to occur due to changes in memory, attention, and cognition after a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

What is the function of perseveration?

Perseverative verbiage often accompanies arousal and acts as a buffer to reduce the anxiety. The repetition can be comforting like a mantra or song. Understanding the function of the perseveration can be better understood if one listens to what is being repeated.