Buddhist psychology presents a unique approach to classifying thoughts, diverging from the conventional good versus bad distinction. Instead, it categorizes thoughts as skillful or unskillful. This framework emphasizes the functional aspect of thoughts rather than moral judgment, focusing on their impact on one's path to liberation.

Unskillful thoughts are those associated with negative states such as greed, hatred, or delusion. These thoughts are particularly troublesome as they can manifest into obsessions, pulling individuals away from their ultimate goal of achieving freedom from suffering. This perspective allows for a more nuanced understanding of mental processes and their relevance to personal growth.