Definitionv1
Rumination: the repetitive, passive focus on symptoms of
Rumination: the repetitive, passive focus on symptoms of distress and their causes and consequences that produces no resolution while consuming attentional bandwidth needed for adaptive problem-solving and functioning as the cognitive signature of unresolved internal conflicts
Why This Is a Definition
This definition clearly establishes 'rumination' as a specific cognitive phenomenon by stating its genus (repetitive, passive focus) and differentia (on distress symptoms and causes without resolution while consuming bandwidth). It distinguishes rumination from general thinking by emphasizing its functionally debilitating nature and its relationship to internal conflicts. The definition is precise enough to distinguish it from related terms like worry or reflection.