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Definition of Persistent

By Elizabeth Hartney, About.com

Updated: February 04, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

Refers to behavior patterns which are continued or repeated again and again.

Although persistent can have positive connotations, it is used in a negative way to refer to the persistent behavior observed in addictions. The behavior is negative when its repetition continues beyond what is considered appropriate or adaptive.

Pronunciation: pur-SIS-tunt
Also Known As: perseverative
Examples: Addiction involves the persistent engagement in an addictive behavior.
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