categorical thinking
[/ˌkætəˈɡɒrɪkəl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/]
noun
pensamento categórico
1. A cognitive pattern in which ideas, objects, or people are placed into distinct, separate categories with rigid boundaries, often without considering nuance, overlap, or gradations
His categorical thinking divided people into either good or bad with no middle ground.
Seu pensamento categórico dividiu as pessoas em boas ou más sem considerar um meio termo.
2. In psychology, a thought pattern characteristic of certain conditions like autism or schizophrenia where the mind processes information in discrete, non-overlapping groups
The therapist identified categorical thinking as a barrier to her emotional flexibility.
A terapeuta identificou o pensamento categórico como uma barreira à sua flexibilidade emocional.
3. A tendency to apply absolute rules or principles without considering contextual variations or exceptions
Categorical thinking in business can lead to missed opportunities for innovation.
O pensamento categórico nos negócios pode levar a oportunidades perdidas de inovação.
The term is primarily used in psychological, educational, and clinical contexts in both Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, it appears frequently in discussions of neurodiversity, cognitive therapy, and organizational development. In the USA, it's associated with discussions of cognitive patterns, psychological flexibility, and mental health treatment. The concept has gained prominence with increased awareness of autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
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