Black-and-white thinking, also known as dichotomous thinking, is a cognitive distortion where individuals see situations in extreme terms, categorizing them as all good or all bad. This type of thinking can lead to oversimplified views of complex issues, making it difficult to recognize the nuances and shades of gray that often exist in reality. This mindset is commonly associated with certain mental health conditions, such as borderline personality disorder and depression. It can affect decision-making and relationships, as individuals may struggle to accept differing opinions or experiences, leading to conflict and misunderstandings.