Volitional Dysregulation with Cognitive Preservation (VDCP) is a neurofunctional condition characterized by a persistent and unpredictable severance between cognitive intent and executive activation. Unlike traditional executive dysfunction models, VDCP specifically identifies a state where high-level reasoning, meta-awareness, and intellectual capacity remain fully intact (Preserved) while the reliable initiation of physical or mental tasks is compromised (Dysregulated). This paper defines the core features of the condition, its relationship to environmental signal density (Open Loop Overwhelm), and its management through the Environmental Container Model (ECM). It argues for the recognition of VDCP as a distinct clinical profile for individuals who are functionally impaired by the mismatch between their cognitive ability and volitional access.
Pines et al. (2026) studied this question.