Defence mechanism

Defence Mechanism is a psychological strategy brought into play by various entities to cope with reality and to maintain self-image. Healthy persons normally use different defences throughout life. A defence mechanism becomes pathological only when its persistent use leads to maladaptive behaviour such that the physical or mental health of the individual is adversely affected.

Definition

Defence mechanisms are psychological strategies that are unconsciously used to protect a person from anxiety arising from unacceptable thoughts or feelings. Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, believed that the ego was responsible for ensuring that an individual's impulses could be expressed in a manner acceptable in the social world. This is done through the process of defence mechanisms.

Types of Defence Mechanisms

Defence mechanisms can be categorised into two popular types: pathological and mature.

Pathological Defence Mechanisms

Pathological defences are often seen in adults and are part of many mental illnesses. They are often present in personality disorders, including Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder.

Mature Defence Mechanisms

Mature defences include altruism, humour, suppression, and sublimation. All are common in adults and part of normal functioning.

See Also

• Psychoanalysis
• Sigmund Freud
• Personality Disorders
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder
• Antisocial Personality Disorder
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Altruism
• Humour
• Suppression
• Sublimation (psychology)