Defense Mechanism in AP Psychology

Definition

Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that individuals unconsciously use to protect themselves from anxiety or distress. They operate at an unconscious level and help to reduce feelings of discomfort or threat.

Related terms

Repression:

Repression is a defense mechanism where unwanted thoughts or memories are pushed into the unconscious mind, preventing them from causing distress.

Projection:

Projection is a defense mechanism where someone attributes their own unacceptable feelings, desires, or impulses onto another person.

Denial:

Denial is a defense mechanism characterized by refusing to acknowledge an unpleasant reality or truth.