The effect of an undecided alternative on resolution of approach-approach and avoidance-avoidance conflict situations

Abstract

Thirty male and 30 female Ss from an introductory psychology class were presented with 21 approach-approach and 21 avoidance-avoidance conflicts typed on 3 × 5 cards. Conflicts were created by systematically pairing seven desirable personal characteristics. Each conflict had an “undecided” alternative. It was hypothesized that the undecided alternative would facilitate resolution of the avoidance-avoidance conflicts because the S was allowed to leave the field while having little effect on the approach-approach conflicts. The data did not substantiate that the undecided alternative facilitated resolution of avoidance-avoidance conflicts. A possible explanation is given.