Internal conflict
Narratology & storytellingA struggle between a character's desires, values or fears that makes a decision difficult.
Example
A doctor must report her brother's mistake, knowing it may end their relationship.
Internal conflict arises when a character is pulled between competing desires, beliefs or fears. Someone may want to tell the truth while dreading the loss of a relationship, or pursue success while resisting what it demands.
The struggle becomes dramatically useful when it affects behavior. A withheld answer or delayed decision lets readers see its cost. Resolution may involve accepting a contradiction rather than eliminating every doubt.
In the workshop
Give each choice a cost the character cares about.
Put this term to work
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