Megzavar

Megzavar is a neologism used in theoretical psychology and speculative fiction to describe a state of extreme cognitive disruption caused by simultaneous multi-sensory stimuli and increased task demands. The term is not part of formal diagnostic systems and has no standardized criteria.

In reported uses, megzavar is characterized by acute overload of attentional resources, impaired working memory, slowed processing, and a distorted sense of time. People experiencing megzavar may exhibit distraction, confusion, reduced situational awareness, and difficulty in initiating or executing planned actions. Symptoms typically emerge when a person is exposed to high information density, rapid pacing, or novel, unpredictable environments, and often subside with rest, simplification of tasks, or controlled sensory input.

Causes and mechanisms: proposed factors include high cognitive load, abrupt changes in context, emotional stress, and unfamiliar sensory modalities. Theoretical models often cite limits of executive control and overload of sensory integration networks; predictive-coding frameworks suggest mismatches between expected and actual input may exacerbate the state.

Measurement and research: there are no formal diagnostic criteria. Researchers discuss observational scales based on task performance, reaction times, and subjective questionnaires in simulated environments. Some experimental paradigms use dual-task interference, multi-sensory streams, or other controlled exposure conditions.

In culture: megzavar appears in speculative fiction and some discussions about information overload, where it serves as a plot device or concept illustrating the limits of human processing under extreme conditions.