Unconscious Conflict in AP Psychology

Definition

Unconscious conflict refers to the internal struggle between conscious desires and unconscious thoughts or impulses that are in opposition. It involves conflicting motivations or desires that are outside of our awareness.

Related terms

Defense Mechanisms:

Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies used by the ego to protect itself from anxiety caused by conflicts between the id (unconscious desires) and superego (internalized moral standards).

Repression:

Repression is a defense mechanism that pushes unwanted thoughts or memories into the unconscious mind, preventing them from entering conscious awareness.

Sublimation:

Sublimation is a defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or desires are redirected into socially acceptable behaviors. For example, channeling aggressive impulses into sports or art.