Defense Mechanisms Flashcards
The “kick the dog syndrome”. Transferring anger and hostility to another person or object, which is perceived to be less powerful than you are.
Displacement (Transference)
Usually the first defense learned and used. Unconscious refusal to see reality. Is not conscious lying
Denial
Blaming others, or a mental or verbal finger-pointing at someone else for personal problems
Projection (Scapegoating)
Use of a logical excuse to cover up true thoughts and feelings. The most frequently used defense mechanism
Rationalizating
Similar to compensation, except the person usually develops the exact opposite trait.
Reaction formation (overcompensation)
Emotionally returning to an earlier time in life when there was much less stress. Commonly seen in patients who are hospitalized. Note: not everyone goes back to the same developmental age. This is very individualized.
Regression
An unconscious “burying” or “forgetting” mechanism. Excludes or withholds unbearable events/situations from our consciousness.
Repression
Unacceptable traits are diverted into acceptable traits
Sublimation
Painful events or situations are separated or dissociated from the conscious mind. Patients often say, “I had an out-of-body experience”, or “it happened to someone else, but it was as though it happened to me.”
Dissociation
Making up for something perceived as an inadequacy by developing a desirable trait
Compensation
Makes amends for a behavior one thinks is unacceptable. Makes an attempt at reducing guilt
Restitution (Undoing)
Emotion that is separated or isolated from the original thought
Isolation
Anxiety is channeled into physical symptoms. Note: often, the symptoms disappear soon after the threat is over.
Conversion reaction
Unconsciously staying away from events or situations that might lead to feelings of aggression or anxiety
Avoidance
List Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
Self-Actualization Self-Esteem Love and belonging Safety and security Physiological
