What does Kelly suggest happens when incompatible constructs become intolerable?

When Kelly discusses the concept of incompatible constructs becoming intolerable, he is emphasizing the psychological distress that arises when an individual's cognitive frameworks or personal constructs conflict with one another. This conflict can lead to a state of confusion and tension, which manifests as pathological anxiety.

Pathological anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and uncertainty, which can overwhelm a person's ability to effectively cope with their circumstances or make decisions. In essence, when constructs that a person uses to interpret and understand their experiences are at odds, it creates a profound internal struggle. This struggle highlights the importance of resolving these conflicts to restore psychological balance. Once these incompatible constructs are addressed, individuals can achieve a clearer understanding of their situations, alleviating the anxiety that stems from such conflicts.

The other options suggest outcomes like enhanced clarity, increased social interaction, or emotional stability, which are unlikely to occur in the presence of unresolved and intolerable conflicts within one’s personal constructs. Instead, the presence of contradictory constructs tends to lead to distress, which aligns with the notion of pathological anxiety. Therefore, recognizing and addressing the sources of cognitive conflict is pivotal in alleviating anxiety and fostering healthier psychological functioning.