obstinance

Obstinance is the state or quality of stubbornly refusing to change one’s position or course of action despite reason, persuasion, or new information. In everyday use, obstinance implies a willful rigidity that resists compromise. The word derives from Latin obstinatus, meaning fixed or stubborn, and entered English through Old French obstiner.

Psychologically, obstinance can reflect persistent goal orientation, identity defense, or cognitive biases such as confirmation bias and motivated reasoning. It may be reinforced by emotions, social dynamics, or fear of losing face. Reactance — a motivation to regain autonomy when it is perceived to be threatened — can intensify obstinate responses when proposals are framed as coercive.

Impact and contexts: obstinance can serve to protect principles or ensure consistency in high-stakes decisions, but it often impedes problem solving, learning, and constructive dialogue. In negotiations and politics, obstinance can harden conflicts and reduce flexibility; in personal relationships, it can erode trust if perspectives become entrenched. Distinctions are made between principled steadfastness and inflexible obstinance, which may invite critique.

Related terms include stubbornness, perseverance, tenacity, dogmatism, and rigidity. Some discussion distinguishes obstinance as a negative, willful rigidity, while recognizing that firm adherence to core beliefs can be advantageous in certain ethical or practical contexts.