Ambivalent

Ambivalent refers to having mixed or contradictory feelings toward a person, object, or situation. A person who is ambivalent may simultaneously experience attraction and repulsion, liking and disliking, or hope and doubt, making evaluation or action uncertain.

Etymology and scope: The word comes from Latin ambivalens, from ambi- meaning both and valere meaning to be strong, and entered English via French and German usage in the early 20th century. In psychology, ambivalence describes a coexisting set of opposing evaluations or motivations toward the same target, a concept used to describe complex emotional states.

Psychological significance: Ambivalence can influence decision making, behavior, and attitude formation. It is distinct from simple disagreement or uncertainty about information; it refers to the coexistence of opposing feelings. Ambivalence can persist even when one outcome is preferred, leading to hesitation, avoidance, or careful weighing of pros and cons before acting.

Usage and examples: In everyday language, ambivalence describes mixed feelings about people, choices, or events, such as ambivalence about changing careers or about a relationship. The term is also used in philosophy, psychiatry, and social sciences to describe motivational conflict or emotional ambivalence, and it is sometimes noted as a normal part of weighing significant life decisions.