APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. a dimension of cognitive style based on the observation that some people approach tasks impulsively, preferring to act immediately on their first thoughts or impressions, whereas others are more reflective, preferring to consider a range of alternatives before acting. This aspect of cognitive style—conceptual tempo—can be assessed using the Matching Familiar Figures Test. Also called reflectivity–impulsivity. [first described in 1963 by Jerome Kagan]