Habit Formation Vocabulary

the diminishing of a physiological or emotional response to a frequently repeated stimulus

“Habituation allows us to ignore background noise after a while.”

Origin: Latin 'habituare' (to bring into a condition of habit)

the ability to do things without occupying the mind with the low-level details required

“Driving becomes a matter of automaticity for experienced drivers.”

Origin: Greek 'automatos' (acting of itself)

a series of actions or type of behavior regularly and invariably followed by someone

“Her morning coffee ritual was essential for starting the day.”

Origin: Latin 'ritualis' from 'ritus' (religious usage)

a stimulus that triggers a specific behavior or memory

“Putting on running shoes can be a powerful cue for exercise.”

Origin: Unknown origin, possibly 'q' for 'quando' (when) in play scripts

a powerful desire for something

“The craving for sugar can derail a diet.”

Origin: Old English 'crafian' (to demand, crave)

an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way

“He felt a compulsion to check his phone constantly.”

Origin: Latin 'compulsio' from 'compellere' (to drive, force)

a sequence of actions regularly followed

“A consistent routine builds momentum.”

Origin: French 'route' (road, path)