In a story, internal conflict is a struggle that happens inside a character's mind. It involves things like wanting something but not being able to achieve it. Unlike external conflict, where a character faces challenges from outside themselves, such as wars, accidents, or obstacles like a broken bike chain or a blocked road, internal conflict deals with problems that are emotional or ethical. Signs of internal conflict include hesitation or a character asking themselves questions like, "What did I do wrong?" It can also involve making difficult decisions.

The term "Victor conflict" is sometimes used to describe a military conflict within a country, such as a civil war. An internal conflict is a type of domestic conflict and can be caused by political, economic, or religious reasons.