Ambivalence meaning

Ambivalence is the conflicting feelings or attitudes someone has towards a particular situation or person.


Ambivalence definitions

Word backwards ecnelavibma
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division am-biv-a-lence
Plural The plural of ambivalence is ambivalences.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (6) m,b,v,l,n,c

Ambivalence: Understanding the Complexities of Mixed Emotions

Ambivalence is a psychological term that refers to the experience of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. It is a state of uncertainty and indecision that can lead to inner conflict and emotional turmoil.

The Nature of Ambivalence

Ambivalence often arises when individuals are faced with conflicting beliefs, desires, or values. This can create a sense of inner tension as they struggle to reconcile these opposing thoughts or emotions. It is not uncommon for people to feel torn between two choices or feel unsure about their true feelings towards a particular person or situation.

The Impact of Ambivalence

Ambivalence can have a significant impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, confusion, and dissatisfaction. The constant back and forth between competing thoughts can be exhausting and drain one's energy. Over time, unresolved ambivalence can also contribute to a sense of stagnation or feeling stuck in one's life.

Coping with Ambivalence

Understanding and accepting ambivalence is the first step towards coping with it. Acknowledging that it is normal to have conflicting feelings can help individuals navigate their emotions more effectively. Seeking support from a therapist or counselor can also be beneficial in working through ambivalence and gaining clarity.

Embracing Complexity

Ambivalence is a natural part of the human experience. It is okay to feel conflicted or uncertain at times. Embracing the complexity of our emotions can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. By acknowledging and exploring our ambivalent feelings, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships.

In conclusion, ambivalence is a complex and nuanced emotional state that many people grapple with at various points in their lives. By recognizing and addressing ambivalence, individuals can learn to navigate their conflicting feelings with greater ease and self-awareness.


Ambivalence Examples

  1. Sarah felt ambivalence about accepting the job offer as it required relocating to a new city.
  2. The politician's speech was filled with ambivalence, leaving voters unsure of his stance on important issues.
  3. Tom's ambivalence towards starting a new business stemmed from fear of failure.
  4. After weeks of deliberation, Emily finally admitted her ambivalence towards ending her long-term relationship.
  5. The patient's ambivalence towards taking medication hindered their recovery process.
  6. Mark's ambivalence towards attending the family reunion reflected his strained relationships with relatives.
  7. The student's ambivalence towards choosing a college major was evident in their indecisiveness.
  8. Martha's ambivalence towards public speaking made her hesitant to accept the role of team leader.
  9. Despite his ambivalence towards social events, James decided to attend the party to support his friend.
  10. The company's ambivalence towards adopting new technology resulted in missed opportunities for growth.


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  • Updated 28/04/2024 - 08:12:34