Approach-avoidance conflict
Definition
This is a type of conflict involving one goal or event that has both positive (attractive) and negative (repelling) aspects.
Analogy
Imagine you're at an ice cream shop. You want to order the triple chocolate sundae because it's delicious, but you also know it's high in calories and sugar which isn't good for your health. That's an approach-avoidance conflict - you're drawn to the sundae but also want to avoid it.
Related terms
Conflict Theory: A theory that emphasizes the role of coercion and power, often leading to conflicts as resources are unevenly distributed.
Cognitive Dissonance: The mental discomfort experienced by a person who holds two or more contradictory beliefs, ideas, or values at the same time.
Decision Making: The cognitive process resulting in the selection of a belief or course of action among several possible alternatives.
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