Which term describes a state of immobility and unresponsiveness lasting for long periods?

• A. catatonia
• B. dementia
• C. ecchymosis
• D. enuresis

Answer: (A)

Catatonia describes a motor state of immobility and unresponsiveness that can persist for long periods. In catatonia, a person may become motionless, withdrawn, and unresponsive, sometimes remaining in stupor or rigid postures for extended times. This motor-psychiatric syndrome is a key term for describing such prolonged immobility.

Dementia refers to a progressive decline in cognitive function, not the specific motor immobility and unresponsiveness described here. Ecchymosis is bruising of the skin or underlying tissues, unrelated to immobility. Enuresis is involuntary urination, such as bedwetting, also unrelated to a prolonged state of unresponsiveness.