Positive formal thought disorder

This is form of thought disorder found in patients with schizophrenia.

It describes an overall picture of schizophrenic disconnected thinking, with features often described as asyndetic thinking and knight's move thought. This may be associated with inter-penetration of themes and overinclusiveness. (i.e. topics may be woven inappropriately together and there may be a tendency to excessive generalisation)

There is thus a lack or loss of logical association between succeeding thoughts which results in incoherent speech (in the absence of brain pathology). Even with good will and diligent listening it is impossible to follow the patient's train of thought.