Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

What type of conflict involves both options being perceived as negative?

1. Approach-avoidance conflict

2. Approach-approach conflict

3. Avoidant-avoidant conflict

4. Double approach-avoidant conflict

The correct answer is: Avoidant-avoidant conflict

The type of conflict that involves both options being perceived as negative is known as avoidant-avoidant conflict. In this scenario, an individual faces a choice between two undesirable outcomes, where neither option is appealing, and the individual may feel compelled to weigh the drawbacks of each choice. This type of conflict can lead to significant stress and anxiety as the person struggles to decide which negative outcome to pursue or whether to avoid making a decision altogether. In contrast, other types of conflict, such as approach-avoidance conflict, involve a single option that has both positive and negative aspects, creating ambivalence. Approach-approach conflict presents two positive choices, making the decision process a pleasant one rather than stressful. Double approach-avoidant conflict involves two options, each with its own set of appealing and unappealing characteristics, making it more complex but not purely negative. Understanding these nuances helps clarify why avoidant-avoidant conflict is distinctly characterized by the perception of negative choices.