Välttelytavoitteet

Välttelytavoitteet, a Finnish term that translates to avoidance goals, are a concept in psychology describing an individual's motivation to prevent or minimize negative outcomes or experiences. These goals are driven by a desire to escape perceived threats, failures, or uncomfortable situations. Unlike approach goals, which focus on achieving positive outcomes, välttelytavoitteet are oriented towards avoiding undesirable states.

The manifestation of avoidance goals can vary widely. For instance, a student might have an avoidance goal of failing an exam rather than an approach goal of getting a high grade. Similarly, an individual might be motivated to avoid social rejection rather than actively seeking social connection. These goals can be conscious or unconscious and can influence behavior, decision-making, and emotional responses.

While avoidance goals can sometimes lead to short-term relief by preventing negative events, they can also have detrimental long-term consequences. Persistent focus on avoiding negative outcomes can lead to increased anxiety, procrastination, and a reluctance to take risks or pursue opportunities. This can create a cycle where the fear of failure becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Understanding välttelytavoitteet is crucial in therapeutic contexts, as identifying and reframing them can help individuals shift towards more adaptive, approach-oriented motivations and improve overall well-being.