Cognitive Rigidity

The inability to adapt one’s thinking, often characterized by black-and-white or all-or-nothing beliefs

• You believed only your religion held truth.

• You felt intense guilt for missing a service.

• You rejected scientific or opposing viewpoints outright.

Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)

• Heightened shame and anxiety may occur during deconstruction.

• Difficulty integrating new beliefs can arise.

• Obsessive-compulsive religious behaviors could develop.