Concrete Vs. Abstract Thinking: Understanding Different Cognitive Styles

When someone hears the phrase "think outside the box," do they picture an actual box, or do they understand it as an invitation to be creative? The answer may depend on whether they tend toward concrete or abstract thinking. Concrete thinking focuses on literal, observable information, while abstract thinking involves conceptualizing ideas, theories, and possibilities beyond physical reality. Understanding these different cognitive styles can help improve communication, strengthen relationships, and provide insight into how you and others process the world.

While there may not be a "right" or "wrong" way of thinking, better understanding your tendencies and thought patterns may help you navigate daily life more effectively. Most people experience a spectrum of thought that varies depending on the situation, and learning about these differences may lead to greater empathy and self-awareness.

What is concrete vs abstract thinking?

Both concrete and abstract thinking are types of thought processes that help people understand and interact with the world around them. These cognitive styles exist on a spectrum, and most individuals use elements of both depending on the context and demands of a given situation.

Understanding concrete thinking

Concrete thinking, or concrete reasoning, is often regarded as a literal form of processing information that exists in the physical world. People who think concretely tend to focus on what they can see, hear, touch, or otherwise directly experience. This type of thinking may be particularly useful for tasks that require attention to specific details, following step-by-step instructions, or working with tangible objects.

Understanding abstract thinking

Abstract thinking, also known as conceptual reasoning, allows people to process philosophical concepts and imagine ideas that may not be physically present or observed by the senses. People with the ability to think abstractly may better understand the theories behind actions, complete theoretical math problems, or engage in creative endeavors. This cognitive style can help with understanding metaphors, planning for the future, and considering hypothetical scenarios.

Common characteristics of concrete thinkers

People who tend to think more concretely may display several distinct characteristics in how they process information and navigate daily life. These tendencies can influence communication, decision-making, and relationships in various ways. Common characteristics of concrete thinkers may include:

• Taking language at face value and interpreting words literally
• Preferring clear, specific instructions over vague guidance
• Finding comfort in established routines and predictable patterns
• Focusing on present, observable details rather than future possibilities
• Experiencing difficulty with gray areas or ambiguous situations

Challenges with figurative language and metaphors

Concrete thinkers may often find it challenging to understand metaphors, similes, and other forms of figurative language. They may tend to think of language in terms of its literal meaning. For example, if someone says "break a leg" before a performance, a concrete thinker might wonder why anyone would wish injury upon them rather than recognizing it as a phrase meaning "good luck." These types of thinkers may also find it difficult to understand symbols or sarcastic language, even after they are explained.

Preference for routines and predictability

People who think concretely may find it difficult to conceptualize abstract ideas or thought patterns, and this tendency might be perceived as stubbornness or inflexibility by others. Consider someone who always cleans their home on Thursdays, never swaying from this routine. An emergency may occur on Thursday, disrupting the person's regular pattern. As a result, this person may struggle to do anything else until their house is clean, even if the emergency needs immediate attention. A person who thinks concretely may often think in extremes, finding it hard to acknowledge the gray areas of certain circumstances. This tendency may sometimes make compromise challenging in relationships and other collaborative situations.

Common characteristics of abstract thinkers

Abstract thinkers can utilize their cognitive style to approach problems and situations in ways that differ from concrete thinkers. Because they may be able to use their reasoning skills and imaginations in different ways, people who think abstractly may be able to show empathy more easily by imagining themselves in another person's situation.

Strengths in conceptual and creative thinking

Abstract thinkers may excel at seeing the bigger picture and making connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. They may find it easier to engage with theoretical discussions, appreciate symbolic art and literature, and generate creative solutions to complex problems. This cognitive style can be particularly valuable in fields that require innovation, strategic planning, or understanding nuanced human experiences.

Potential challenges for abstract thinkers

While abstract thinking offers many advantages, it can also present certain challenges. Abstract thinkers may sometimes struggle to remain grounded or see specific areas of life in a concrete manner. They might overlook practical details while focusing on theoretical possibilities, or have difficulty following step-by-step instructions that require attention to specific, tangible tasks. Finding balance between abstract vision and concrete implementation can be an ongoing process for those who lean heavily toward conceptual thinking.

Examples of concrete and abstract thinking in daily life

Understanding how these thinking styles manifest in everyday situations can help illustrate the differences between concrete and abstract approaches. The following table shows how each type of thinker might respond to common scenarios:

Examples in communication and language

Many aspects of language call for conceptual reasoning, which may cause misunderstandings among those who tend to think more concretely. For instance, if someone says "I'll be done in a sec," a concrete thinker might expect them to finish in exactly one second.

Examples in problem-solving and decision-making

When faced with a workplace challenge like improving team communication, a concrete thinker might focus on specific, tangible solutions such as scheduling more meetings or creating a shared document. An abstract thinker might instead consider the underlying dynamics affecting communication, explore how team culture influences interactions, and envision what ideal collaboration would look like before determining specific steps to get there.

How concrete thinking develops

Most people may know how to think concretely if the setting calls for it. For many, concrete operational thinking develops between the ages of seven and 11. Around this time, children can learn how to think and perform mental operations using concrete thought. They may begin to understand that an object can be the same in many forms, even if cut in half or quartered, which builds on the concept of object permanence that emerged earlier in life. This way of thinking can contribute to motor skills development and problem-solving abilities needed throughout school and life.

Abstract thinking typically develops later, during adolescence, as part of what developmental psychologists call the formal operational stage. Still, some adults may remain more concrete-dominant for various reasons, including neurological differences, life experiences, or simply individual cognitive preferences.

Conditions associated with concrete thinking patterns

In some cases, concrete thinking may be associated with a neurological or developmental condition. However, concrete thinking alone does not indicate a condition, and many people simply have a natural preference for this cognitive style.

Concrete thinking and autism spectrum disorder

Concrete thinking may be strongly correlated with autism spectrum disorder. Many individuals on the autism spectrum may process information in highly literal ways, which can affect communication and social interactions. This tendency is not a limitation but rather a different way of experiencing and understanding the world. Understanding this connection can help family members, educators, and colleagues provide more effective support and communication.

Concrete thinking and other conditions

Concrete thinking can also be prevalent among people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some individuals with ADHD may find abstract thinking more challenging, though this varies significantly from person to person. Some other conditions that may be associated with concrete thinking patterns include schizophrenia, dementia, and brain injuries.

How concrete thinking may affect relationships and daily life

Because the world is not always accessible to people with diverse ways of thinking, those who primarily think concretely may sometimes experience challenges in daily life that could affect them at work, at school, or in relationships. Understanding these potential impacts may help both concrete thinkers and those around them navigate interactions more effectively.

Communication challenges

Many aspects of language call for conceptual reasoning, which may cause misunderstandings among those who tend to think more concretely. Specifically, concrete thinkers may have trouble with:

• Interpreting figures of speech such as idioms and metaphors
• Recognizing sarcasm in speech or writing
• Connecting meaning to hypothetical descriptions
• Conceptualizing imaginative ideas
• Following vague or abstract instructions

Impact on social relationships

People with a primarily concrete thinking style may have trouble picking up on social cues, which can make social interactions feel awkward at times. For example, they might not realize when someone is making a joke or being sarcastic. Some other types of communication, such as talking about feelings or asking deep questions, may be more difficult as well. This concrete thinking strategy can be perceived as dogmatic and may negatively influence relationships because it can sometimes make compromise challenging. However, with awareness and open communication, these challenges can often be addressed.

How to support concrete thinkers

Whether you are a parent, educator, partner, or colleague, understanding how to effectively communicate with and support concrete thinkers may help strengthen relationships and reduce frustration on both sides. Adopting a few key strategies may help make a difference.

Strategies for educators and parents

When working with those who think concretely, certain approaches may be particularly helpful, such as:

• Provide clear, specific instructions rather than vague guidance
• Use visual aids and concrete examples before introducing abstract concepts
• Allow extra time for transitions between activities
• Break complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps
• Explain figurative language and idioms when they arise
• Be patient when routines need to change unexpectedly

Supporting a partner or family member

If someone you love tends toward concrete thinking, open communication about your different cognitive styles may help prevent misunderstandings. Consider being direct and specific in your communication, focusing on tangible expressions of care like physical touch, and avoiding sarcasm or figurative language when discussing important matters. It can also help to provide advance notice when plans need to change, giving your loved one time to adjust mentally. Understanding their perspective rather than viewing their thinking style as a problem to fix can create a more empathetic and understanding environment for everyone.

Strategies for developing flexible thinking

For those who tend to have concrete thinking patterns, shifting your thought process may provide relief and comfort. This is often done by attaining a balanced way of thinking that adopts more of a spectrum between concrete and abstract thinking rather than a linear model. The goal is not to eliminate concrete thinking but to develop greater flexibility when situations call for different approaches.

Challenging your routines gradually

Instead of completing your routine as you've completed it in the past, you may try changing it slightly. It can be challenging to develop a new routine, and it may seem counterproductive. However, you might notice that you enjoy the new routine more or can find a more flexible or efficient way to get through your day.

You could also consider why other people make different choices from you in similar activities. For example, observe someone else completing a task in a way that's different from your approach. Ask yourself what in their approach might work for them and how it might benefit you. Self-reflection may offer growth and development of thought processes and styles.

Learning about cognitive restructuring

Challenging yourself to learn and understand the concepts and theories behind cognition and cognitive development can help you change your thinking. Tactics like cognitive restructuring are often used in therapeutic modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients change their thoughts if they're experiencing cognitive distortions like "all-or-nothing" thinking.

Exploring RO-DBT therapy

RO-DBT is a therapy approach sometimes used for people experiencing rigid or "over-controlled" thinking patterns, including in the context of conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). Radically-open dialectical-behavioral therapy (RO-DBT) focuses on how individuals can become more open to unique, spontaneous, and open-minded thought patterns. Each group participant may receive an RO-DBT workbook with worksheets and ideas to cope with common symptoms associated with black-and-white thinking and other concrete thought-related challenges.

How therapy may help with thinking patterns

For additional support in understanding how your style of thinking affects you, your relationships, and your daily life, you may choose to explore online therapy or seek an in-person counselor. Either way, a therapist or counselor may teach you tools to help you recognize concrete thinking and develop and strengthen flexible thinking skills if applicable.

How online therapy may benefit you

Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp allows you to receive convenient and flexible support from your own home. The platform offers affordable therapy, with or without insurance. The cost of online therapy via BetterHelp ranges from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, based on your location, referral source, preferences, any applicable discounts, and therapist availability. Some providers on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain health plans for eligible members in select states, and co-pays average about $23 per session when covered. Learn more about insurance coverage. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability.

BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through Uplift as an additional care option alongside therapy. When clinically appropriate and based on a licensed psychiatric provider's evaluation, psychiatry services may include medication management as part of a broader mental health treatment plan. Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member's insurance plan.

The effectiveness of online therapy

You can generally feel confident in the effectiveness of the care you'll receive whether you choose online or in-person therapy. Consider one study which suggests that "internet-delivered therapy may be a viable alternative to in-person therapy" in many cases. That means you can typically choose the format that suits your needs and preferences.