DOUBLE BIND Meaning and
Definition
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A double bind refers to a situation where a person is trapped between two conflicting instructions or expectations, both of which seem equally compelling or important, yet obeying one instruction automatically means disobeying the other. This creates a dilemma where whatever action is taken leads to negative consequences, criticism, or invalidation. A double bind is characterized by its paradoxical nature, as it sets up an individual for failure or blame regardless of their response.
This term was initially introduced by psychiatrist and anthropologist Gregory Bateson to describe an individual's experience of being caught in contradictory messages, often within close relationships or social systems. It commonly occurs in interpersonal or familial dynamics, where conflicting expectations or demands are placed on an individual, leaving them without an acceptable choice.
Double binds have significant psychological effects on individuals, potentially leading to feelings of confusion, frustration, powerlessness, and anxiety. Moreover, they may contribute to a breakdown in communication and trust within relationships or even in larger societal structures.
Understanding and identifying double binds is crucial for effective communication and healthy relationships. Recognizing the contradictory messages and working to resolve the conflict or find alternative solutions can help alleviate the negative impacts of a double bind. Therefore, acknowledging and addressing these paradoxical situations can improve overall well-being and promote healthier interactions.
Common Misspellings for DOUBLE BIND
- souble bind
- xouble bind
- couble bind
- fouble bind
- rouble bind
- eouble bind
- diuble bind
- dkuble bind
- dluble bind
- dpuble bind
- d0uble bind
- d9uble bind
- doyble bind
- dohble bind
- dojble bind
- doible bind
- do8ble bind
- do7ble bind
- douvle bind
Etymology of DOUBLE BIND
The term "double bind" was first introduced by the anthropologist and psychiatrist Gregory Bateson and his colleagues in the 1950s to describe a type of communication paradox that arises in certain interpersonal relationships. However, the term "double bind" itself is believed to have been coined by anthropologist and cybernetician Paul Watzlawick in the late 1960s.
Etymologically, the term "double bind" can be broken down as follows:
- "Double" comes from the Old French word "doble", meaning "twofold" or "having two parts". This can be traced back to the Latin word "duplus", which means "twofold" or "double".
- "Bind" comes from the Old English word "bindan", which means "to tie or fasten".
Idioms with the word DOUBLE BIND
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a double bind
The idiom "a double bind" refers to a situation where someone is faced with two conflicting options or expectations, both of which lead to negative or undesirable outcomes regardless of the choice made. It describes a situation where a person feels trapped or unable to escape the negative consequences, creating a sense of being caught between a rock and a hard place.
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double bind
A situation in which a person is confronted with two conflicting demands or expectations and fulfilling one will inevitably lead to failure in fulfilling the other.
Similar spelling words for DOUBLE BIND
- double obelisk,
- double fault,
- double flat,
- double bed,
- double-bedded,
- double over,
- double boiler,
- double up,
- double bar,
- double birdie,
- double-faced,
- double vision,
- double bogey,
- double play,
- double bass,
- double first,
- double bassoon,
- double back,
- double blind,
- double bond.
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