Can Indecision and Terminal Ambivalence Be Signs of Trauma?
Briefly

Terminal ambivalence leads to internal conflicts and decision paralysis, causing individuals to feel overwhelmed and stuck, often rooted in unresolved childhood experiences. This psychological state is characterized by perfectionism and harsh self-criticism, influencing personal and professional decisions. Research indicates that those who struggle with making choices frequently have early experiences where their emotional needs were overlooked. Interventions like psychodynamic and experiential therapy can effectively help individuals heal from these deep-seated issues, enabling them to make clear and confident decisions once again.
Terminal ambivalence is marked by perfectionism and self-criticism, leading to internal stalemate and decision paralysis. Individuals may feel overwhelmed and unable to choose.
Anxiety around decision-making often stems from early experiences of having needs ignored or punished, contributing to a chronic state of indecision.
Therapeutic interventions such as psychodynamic and experiential therapy can address the unresolved fears associated with terminal ambivalence, helping individuals regain decision-making confidence.
This condition can silently erode confidence, productivity, and mood, resulting in procrastination, inaction, and missed opportunities during critical life transitions.
Read at Psychology Today
[
|
]