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Freud Defense Mechanisms

Denial

Projection

Rationalization

Displacement

Sublimation

By Aure Liu

Denial occurs when people are unable to handle a situation so they reject the existence of their problems or known facts, thus creating a way to avoid an unhappy reality. Sometimes, it could also mean playing down the seriousness of a problem.

Projection is a defense mechanism that occurs when someone conceals their unwelcome desires by ascribing them to other people around them instead of acknowledging it. Projecting guilty thoughts allows desire to be expressed in a way that accommodates anxiety.

Rationalization is a defense mechanism that entails creating a logical justification for events or behaviors, skimming over the true reason for why something happened. Making excuses, believing white lies, and blaming outside forces are all examples of ways rationalization can preserve self-esteem.

Displacement is a defense mechanism that directs unwanted impulses or frustration on uninvolved subjects. The subjects can be symbolic of the repressed desires and are often innocuous quarries whom pose no threat or consequence.

Sublimation is a defense mechanism similar to displacement, except the unwanted impulses or frustrations are being converted into energy for a socially valued or constructive activity. Expressing oneself through a medium, like fine arts or a sport, instead of blindly venting frustration is seen as mature.

Freud Defense Mechanisms

Denial

Projection

Rationalization

Displacement

Sublimation

By Aure Liu

Denial occurs when people are unable to handle a situation so they reject the existence of their problems or known facts, thus creating a way to avoid an unhappy reality. Sometimes, it could also mean playing down the seriousness of a problem.

Projection is a defense mechanism that occurs when someone conceals their unwelcome desires by ascribing them to other people around them instead of acknowledging it. Projecting guilty thoughts allows desire to be expressed in a way that accommodates anxiety.

Rationalization is a defense mechanism that entails creating a logical justification for events or behaviors, skimming over the true reason for why something happened. Making excuses, believing white lies, and blaming outside forces are all examples of ways rationalization can preserve self-esteem.

Displacement is a defense mechanism that directs unwanted impulses or frustration on uninvolved subjects. The subjects can be symbolic of the repressed desires and are often innocuous quarries whom pose no threat or consequence.

Sublimation is a defense mechanism similar to displacement, except the unwanted impulses or frustrations are being converted into energy for a socially valued or constructive activity. Expressing oneself through a medium, like fine arts or a sport, instead of blindly venting frustration is seen as mature.