Definitionv1
Zeigarnik loop: a cognitive mechanism where incomplete tasks
Zeigarnik loop: a cognitive mechanism where incomplete tasks maintain an active representation in working memory, consuming resources and generating periodic intrusive thoughts even when not actively attended to, with the strength of the memory trace increasing with personal significance and expectation of return
Why This Is a Definition
This definition precisely captures the genus (cognitive mechanism) and differentia (active representation, resource consumption, intrusive thoughts, strength related to significance and expectation) of Zeigarnik loops. It distinguishes this specific cognitive phenomenon from general memory processes while incorporating the research findings about its strength and persistence.