Nearly everyone fears death. How that fear influences human thinking and behavior is the focus of terror management theory (TMT) research. According to TMT, death anxiety drives people to adopt worldviews that protect their self-esteem , worthiness, and sustainability and allow them to believe that they play an important role in a meaningful world. Some of these views lead to troubling actions.
What Is Terror Management Theory? (Plain Language Explanation)
Terror Management Theory refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Terror Management Theory
- Symptoms: The specific ways terror management theory shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen terror management theory
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When terror management theory occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Terror Management Theory
- Terror Management Theory is far more common than most people realize
- Terror Management Theory is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with terror management theory see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about terror management theory is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing terror management theory, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.