The tendency to see situations in binary terms without recognizing the middle ground is called?

The correct term for the tendency to see situations in binary terms without recognizing the middle ground is indeed all-or-none thinking. This cognitive distortion involves viewing scenarios as entirely good or bad, right or wrong, without allowing for any nuance or complexity in between. This way of thinking can lead to unrealistic expectations and judgments about oneself and others, contributing to stress and dissatisfaction.

All-or-none thinking often manifests in various contexts, such as perfectionism, where individuals may feel that if they cannot achieve a perfect outcome, they have failed entirely. Recognizing this tendency is crucial for developing more flexible and realistic thought patterns, allowing for a better understanding of the complexities in life and improving mental well-being.

In contrast, selective thinking involves focusing on specific details while ignoring broader aspects, overgeneralizing entails making sweeping statements based on a single event, and cognitive rigidity refers to an overall inflexibility in thinking. While these concepts relate to cognitive distortions, they do not specifically capture the essence of the binary viewpoint inherent in all-or-none thinking.