What can result from failing to move through anxiety according to existential therapy?

In existential therapy, failing to move through anxiety can lead to neurotic anxiety. This type of anxiety stems from an individual’s inability to confront and embrace the inherent uncertainties and existential dilemmas of life. Instead of processing and integrating their feelings of anxiety, individuals may become overwhelmed, leading to a persistent state of unease and distress. Neurotic anxiety is often characterized by irrational fears and an avoidance of facing the root causes of anxiety, which can hinder personal growth and limit one's ability to live authentically.

The other options reflect positive outcomes or states that arise from effectively dealing with anxiety. Emotional resilience and clarity of purpose come from facing and working through anxiety, leading to a stronger ability to cope with future challenges. Similarly, increased motivation often emerges when individuals confront their fears and take proactive steps toward their goals. In contrast, neurotic anxiety represents a stagnation or regression resulting from avoidance rather than engagement, illustrating the importance of processing anxiety in a constructive manner within the framework of existential therapy.