Problem: Write a reply. Understanding the difference between ambivalence and commitment uncertainty can be important when addressing couples with mixed agendas. Ambivalence and commitment uncertainty can occur at any point in the relationship, so it's important to be aware of these two concepts no matter what stage of a relationship a couple presents to therapy is in. Ambivalence in couples therapy refers to conflicting or contradictory thoughts or feelings one partner may have toward the other (Harris & Hall, 2020). Another way of putting it is that a partner may simultaneously feel positive and negative feelings toward the partner or relationship (Owen et al., 2014). While ambivalence and commitment uncertainty may seem similar, Owen et al. (2014) distinguish ambivalence as trait-like. For example, an individual may feel positive about their partner but be afraid of commitment. In this case, their fear of commitment makes them feel both positive and negative feelings toward their partner. While ambivalence consists of contradictory thoughts or feelings, commitment uncertainty is defined as when one partner lacks the information or confidence to decide whether they want to remain committed to their partner (Harris & Hall, 2020). Commitment uncertainty is usually indicative of a rupture or strain that can affect the couple's shared sense of identity (Owen et al., 2014). One aspect of a study that Quirk et al. (2021) conducted that deepened my understanding of commitment uncertainty. Need Assignment Help?