Which of the following is a recognized conflict type in Lewin's framework?

• A. Approach-Avoidance Conflict
• B. Avoidance-Avoidance Conflict
• C. Approach-Approach Conflict
• D. Double-Bind Conflict

Answer: (A)

In Lewin’s view, conflicts arise from how a goal can both attract and repel us. The classic approach-avoidance conflict happens when there’s a single option that has both appealing and unappealing features. You’re drawn to the goal, but its drawbacks push you away, creating inner tension as you weigh the positives against the negatives. For example, taking a job offer might mean good pay and advancement (attraction) but also longer hours and more stress (repulsion). That tug between wanting the goal and being deterred by its downsides is the essence of this conflict type. Lewin also described other patterns, like two desirable options (approach-approach) or two undesirable options (avoidance-avoidance), but the described situation best illustrates the single-goal mix of pull and push characteristic of approach-avoidance. The double-bind idea comes from a different theory and isn’t part of Lewin’s framework.