Which term describes difficulties arising when a person holds multiple social positions with conflicting expectations?

The correct term for difficulties that arise when a person holds multiple social positions with conflicting expectations is role conflict. This occurs when the expectations associated with different roles that an individual occupies clash with one another, leading to stress and confusion. For example, a person who is both a parent and a full-time employee may find themselves torn between the responsibilities of their job and the obligations of their family life, experiencing conflict between the expectations of each role.

Role strain, on the other hand, refers to difficulties or pressures that arise within a single role when the demands exceed what the individual can manage. Role ambiguity involves uncertainty about what is expected in a role, which doesn’t necessarily address the conflict between multiple roles. Role excess refers to being overwhelmed by too many roles but does not specifically address the nature of conflicting expectations between those roles. Understanding the nuances of these terms helps clarify why role conflict is the appropriate choice for this question.