double bind

/ˌˈdʌbəl ˌbaɪnd/
IPA guide

Definitions of double bind
  1. noun
    (psychology) an unresolvable dilemma; situation in which a person receives contradictory messages from a person who is very powerful
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    type of:
    dilemma, quandary
    state of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options
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