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Defensive Mechanisms Human Behavior Personality

What are Defensive Mechanisms? Defensive Mechanisms are tools we use to reduce and cope with anxiety and conflict in our lives.

Defensive Mechanisms Defensive mechanisms have two primary characteristics: They distort and deny reality They operate unconsciously, so that we are unaware that we are using them to protect the ego and reduce anxiety There are 8 defensive mechanisms.

1. Rationalization Definition: You come up with various explanations to justify the situation (while denying your feelings). Or supplying a logical or rational reason as apposed to the real reason. Example: Stating you failed a test because you didn’t kiss up to the teacher, when the real reason was you didn’t study.

2. Regression Definition: Returning to a previous immature stage of development. Example: Sitting in a corner and crying after hearing bad news. Example: Throwing a temper tantrum when you don’t get your way.

3. Repression Definition: When we exclude painful, unwanted or dangerous thoughts and impulses for our conscious mind. We put events/situations into the unconscious. Example: Forgetting a bad dog attack from your childhood due to the trauma and anxiety in caused.

4. Sublimation Definition: Acting out unacceptable impulses in a socially acceptable way. Example: A person who turns aggressive impulses into becoming a boxing fan. Example: Lifting weights to release “pent up” energy. Example: Writing a poem about shame and anger instead of starting a fight.

5. Denial Definition: You completely reject thoughts and feelings that cause you anxiety. Example: Denying that your doctor’s diagnosis of cancer is correct and demanding to seek a second opinion.

6. Projection Definition: When we attribute our own feelings, shortcomings, or unacceptable impulses to others. Or placing unacceptable impulses in yourself onto someone else. Example: When losing an argument, you state, “You’re just stupid”. Example: Accusing your friend of being an alcoholic when you’re the one with a drinking problem.

7. Displacement Definition: Taking out anger/impulses on a less threatening target. Example: Slamming a door instead of hitting a person when you’re really mad. Example: Yelling at your teammate after an argument with your coach. Example: Screaming at your brother after your dad makes you angry.

8. Reaction Formation Definition: You turn your feeling into it’s opposite. Taking the opposite belief because the true belief causes anxiety. Example: Hating a particular race or culture and then embracing that race or culture to the extreme.