1. an attitude characterized by persistent resistance to the suggestions of others (passive negativism) or the tendency to act in ways that are contrary to the expectations, requests, or commands of others (active negativism), typically without any identifiable reason for opposition. In young children and adolescents, such reactions may be considered a healthy expression of self-assertion. Negativism may also be associated with a number of disorders (extreme negativism is a feature of catatonic schizophrenia), and it can be an expression of opposition, withdrawal, or anger or a method of gaining attention. Also called negativistic response. See also oppositional defiant disorder; passive-aggressive personality disorder.

2. any philosophy or doctrine based on negation, such as nihilism or skepticism. —negativistic adj.