hypervigilance
hy-per-VIJ-uh-luhnss
/ˌhaɪ.pɚˈvɪdʒ.əl.əns/
An enhanced state of sensory sensitivity accompanied by an exaggerated intensity of behaviors aimed at detecting threats.
Implies an exhausting, constant search for danger even in safe environments.
The story behind the word. Combines Greek 'hyper-' (over, beyond) with Latin 'vigilare' (to stay awake, watch). It describes an operating state where the brain's internal radar is turned up too high.
Word relationships
- overwatchfulness: Overwatchfulness is descriptive English; hypervigilance is the technical psychological term.
- alertness: Alertness is adaptive focus; hypervigilance is an anxious, exhausting over-activation.
- unwariness: Lack of caution or guard against danger.
Commonly confused with
- paranoia: Paranoia involves irrational beliefs about persecution; hypervigilance is heightened physical alertness to danger.
Word family
- hypervigilant (adjective): Extremely or abnormally watchful for potential threats.
Collocations
- extreme hypervigilance
- state of hypervigilance
- induce hypervigilance
- constant hypervigilance
Example sentences
- "Veterans suffering from PTSD often display hypervigilance in crowded public places." Clinical Psychology
Memory hook
HYPER-VIGILANCE = HYPER active VIGIL (watchfulness). Exaggerated threat scanning.
When not to use
Do not use for normal attentiveness or healthy caution.
Fun facts
- Hypervigilance directly engages the amygdala, keeping the body flooded with adrenaline.
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