Final answer:
The term for the psychological state where a person cannot start or continue writing due to fear or anxiety is 'writer's block.' It is a common issue that can be overcome by following a recursive writing process, emphasizing that the best writing takes time and effort.
Step-by-step explanation:
The psychological state of being unable to begin or continue the process of composition out of fear or anxiety is called writer's block. This is a common experience among writers, where they find themselves temporarily unable to produce new work or come up with new ideas. It's important to recognize that writing is not always a linear process; even experienced writers encounter moments when the words just don't seem to flow.
According to writing experts, following a recursive writing process—where steps are repeated multiple times in no specific order—is key to overcoming writer's block. This method helps relieve the pressure to write perfectly in the first draft and supports the idea that the best writing requires time, incremental effort, and resilience. By embracing this approach, writers can liberate themselves from the paralyzing grip of writer's block.