What mindset does a person demonstrate when they believe certain outcomes are impossible?

The belief that certain outcomes are impossible reflects a mindset characterized by inconceivability. This term indicates a level of thinking where an individual cannot envision or imagine a particular outcome as feasible, often leading to a closed perspective on possibilities. When someone is in this mindset, they may disregard potential solutions or changes, effectively limiting their ability to see options for success or progress.

In contrast, pessimism represents a tendency to expect negative outcomes but does not necessarily imply a belief that those outcomes are impossible. Realism focuses on accepting situations as they are, without straying into notions of impossibility. Fatalism suggests that outcomes are determined by fate or destiny, leaving no room for belief in individual agency or possibilities. Thus, inconceivability most accurately captures the essence of believing certain outcomes are unattainable.