May 22, 2011 10:38 AM GMT
Basic definition:
'' Most notably used by Sigmund Freud in his psychoanalytic theory, a defense mechanism is a tactic developed by the ego to protect against anxiety. Defense mechanisms are thought to safeguard the mind against feelings and thoughts that are too difficult for the conscious mind to cope with. In some instances, defense mechanisms are thought to keep inappropriate or unwanted thoughts and impulses from entering the conscious mind.
A defense mechanism is a strategy used to cover up or change unconscious desires and wishes that may be inappropriate or difficult to express.
For example, if you are faced with a particularly unpleasant task, your mind may choose to forget your responsibility in order to avoid the dreaded assignment. In addition to forgetting, other defense mechanisms include rationalization, denial, repression, projection, rejection and reaction formation.''
We all have them, in different forms and to different degrees, it's a basic human cerebral function.
What are yours? When do they come into play in your life? Discuss.
'' Most notably used by Sigmund Freud in his psychoanalytic theory, a defense mechanism is a tactic developed by the ego to protect against anxiety. Defense mechanisms are thought to safeguard the mind against feelings and thoughts that are too difficult for the conscious mind to cope with. In some instances, defense mechanisms are thought to keep inappropriate or unwanted thoughts and impulses from entering the conscious mind.
A defense mechanism is a strategy used to cover up or change unconscious desires and wishes that may be inappropriate or difficult to express.
For example, if you are faced with a particularly unpleasant task, your mind may choose to forget your responsibility in order to avoid the dreaded assignment. In addition to forgetting, other defense mechanisms include rationalization, denial, repression, projection, rejection and reaction formation.''
We all have them, in different forms and to different degrees, it's a basic human cerebral function.
What are yours? When do they come into play in your life? Discuss.