The Double Bind According to Gregory Bateson
A double bind is a communicative situation where a person is caught in a dilemma because they receive two contradictory messages from a source with authority or emotional importance, and they cannot respond adequately to either message without facing negative consequences.
This type of communication can cause confusion, distress, and, in extreme cases, contribute to the development of psychological disorders.
Elements of a Double Bind:
- Significant relationship: The bind occurs in a relationship where the receiver sees the sender as an important figure (parent, partner, boss, etc.).
- Contradictory levels: Two conflicting messages are given—one explicit (verbal) and the other implicit (non-verbal or contextual).
- No escape: The person cannot question or escape the situation without facing negative consequences.
- Repetitive pattern: This pattern is repeated frequently, reinforcing the dilemma and its effects.
Practical Example:
- A mother says to her child, “I want you to be independent” (explicit message), but when the child makes their own decisions, she reprimands or disqualifies them (implicit message).
- Result: The child is trapped in the dilemma of meeting the contradictory expectations of their mother.
Psychological Impact:
Bateson and his team, in their study of schizophrenia, suggested that the double bind could contribute to the development of mental disorders in prolonged and unresolved contexts. This type of ambiguous communication can make it difficult for a person to develop a coherent response, generating feelings of helplessness and confusion.
How to Address a Double Bind:
- Awareness: Recognize the contradictions and their emotional effects.
- Promote clarity in communication: Encourage messages that are coherent and congruent at both verbal and non-verbal levels.
- Seek external support: A therapist or coach can be instrumental in unraveling double bind patterns in significant relationships.
- Set boundaries: Whenever possible, clarify expectations and avoid being trapped in impossible situations.