Repression

Definition

Repression is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual unconsciously pushes distressing thoughts, memories, or emotions out of their conscious awareness. This act often leads to internal conflict and influences behavior in ways that the individual may not fully understand. In character development, repression can be pivotal in shaping motivations, actions, and interactions, providing depth to a character's psychological profile.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Repression can lead to the development of neurotic symptoms as unresolved conflicts may resurface in other forms.
2. It is often depicted in storytelling as characters who struggle with hidden past traumas that affect their current relationships and decisions.
3. Characters exhibiting repression may show inconsistencies in their behavior, revealing a deeper complexity beneath their surface demeanor.
4. Repression can create a sense of mystery around a character, as their true motivations and feelings are not immediately apparent.
5. Understanding a character's repression can help writers craft more nuanced story arcs and emotional resolutions.

Review Questions

• How does repression affect character behavior and interactions in storytelling?
  • Repression significantly influences character behavior and interactions by causing internal conflicts that may manifest as anxiety, avoidance, or aggressive behaviors. Characters who repress their emotions often struggle to connect with others and may display inconsistent actions that confuse those around them. This internal struggle can create tension and drive the narrative, making it essential for writers to explore these aspects when developing characters.
• Discuss the role of repression in developing a character's backstory and emotional depth.
  • Repression plays a crucial role in shaping a character's backstory and emotional depth by highlighting unresolved issues from their past. When a character has repressed memories or feelings, it creates layers that add complexity to their personality. As the story unfolds, the gradual revelation of these repressed elements can lead to significant character growth, allowing readers to understand the motivations behind their actions and how they cope with their inner turmoil.
• Evaluate how understanding repression can enhance the writing process for character development in screenplays.
  • Understanding repression can greatly enhance the writing process by allowing writers to create more relatable and multi-dimensional characters. By exploring how repressed emotions shape a character's choices, writers can craft more authentic dialogue and interactions that resonate with audiences. Additionally, portraying a character's journey toward confronting repressed feelings provides opportunities for powerful dramatic moments, ultimately leading to richer storytelling and deeper audience engagement.

Related terms

Suppression: A conscious decision to ignore or avoid certain thoughts or feelings, often used as a coping strategy.

Projection:

A defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others, allowing them to distance themselves from these emotions.

Denial: A refusal to accept reality or facts, often leading an individual to reject the existence of uncomfortable emotions or situations.