A mental struggle resulting from opposing or incompatible needs, drives, wishes, or internal or external demands constitutes an aversive state. This internal discord often involves a perceived threat to one’s well-being, values, goals, or self-concept. For example, an individual may experience it when faced with choosing between two desirable career paths, both of which align with their skillset but necessitate different lifestyles. Similarly, it can arise from a clash between personal values and organizational expectations in the workplace.
Understanding this subjective experience is crucial because it significantly impacts behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. Addressing the root causes effectively reduces stress, improves decision-making abilities, and fosters healthier interpersonal relationships. Historically, various theoretical frameworks, such as psychodynamic theory and cognitive dissonance theory, have offered perspectives on the origins and resolution of internal struggles, each highlighting different aspects of human motivation and behavior in the face of competing demands.
