Boredom in Psychiatric Disorders: Another Dimensional Construct?

Boredom is increasingly emerging as a clinically relevant construct in psychiatry, yet it remains insufficiently integrated into contemporary psychopathological models. Rather than reflecting a trivial or purely situational state, boredom may be conceptualized as an aversive condition arising when individuals desire meaningful engagement but are unable to sustain it. This review examines boredom across major psychiatric disorders, with particular attention to its neurophysiological, neurobiological, and clinical correlates.

A narrative synthesis of conceptual, neurophysiological, neuroimaging, autonomic, and clinical literature on boredom was conducted, considering findings across major psychiatric disorders.

Available evidence suggests that boredom is associated with alterations in attentional regulation, motivational processing, and internally oriented cognition. EEG studies report increased alpha activity, altered theta dynamics, and reduced indices of cognitive control, whereas functional neuroimaging findings highlight greater involvement of the default mode network and reduced engagement of fronto-parietal control systems. Autonomic data further indicate that boredom is not a uniform low-arousal state, but a dynamic psychophysiological condition characterized by fluctuating patterns of disengagement and re-engagement. Clinically, boredom appears to cut across diagnostic categories, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, psychotic spectrum conditions, addictions, eating disorders, personality disorders, and suicidality. Across these conditions, it may function both as a vulnerability factor and as a mechanism contributing to maladaptive coping, impaired functioning, and poorer treatment adherence.

Overall, the literature supports the view that boredom may represent a dimensional and transdiagnostic construct of potential relevance for psychiatric research and practice. A more systematic assessment of boredom may improve psychopathological characterization and help identify novel therapeutic targets.