Resistance (psychoanalysis)

Resistance is a concept in psychoanalysis that refers to oppositional behavior when an individual's unconscious defenses of the ego are threatened by an external source. It is a key part of Sigmund Freud's theories of psychoanalysis.

Definition

Resistance is a phenomenon often encountered in clinical practice in which patients may oppose the therapeutic process. This can take many forms, including denial, projection, rationalization, and repression. Resistance is often a sign that the patient is avoiding certain thoughts or feelings that are too painful to confront.

History

The concept of resistance was first described by Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis. Freud believed that resistance was a defense mechanism used by the ego to prevent the conscious mind from recognizing unconscious thoughts and feelings. He argued that understanding and overcoming resistance was a key part of the therapeutic process in psychoanalysis.

Types of Resistance

There are several types of resistance that can occur in psychoanalysis:

• Denial: This is a refusal to accept reality or facts. It is a common defense mechanism that allows the person to avoid dealing with painful emotions or areas of their life they don’t wish to admit.

• Projection: This is a defense mechanism in which a person attributes their own unacceptable thoughts, feelings and motives to another person.

• Rationalization: This is a defense mechanism that involves explaining an unacceptable behavior or feeling in a rational or logical manner, avoiding the true reasons for the behavior.

• Repression: This is a defense mechanism where a person unconsciously pushes away painful or traumatic memories, thoughts or desires. This helps the person to avoid feeling discomfort and anxiety.

In Psychotherapy

In psychotherapy, resistance can be a significant obstacle to treatment progress. Therapists often work to help patients recognize and overcome their resistance in order to facilitate healing and growth. This can involve helping the patient to understand their defense mechanisms and to confront the painful emotions or experiences they are avoiding.

See Also

• Defense Mechanism
• Psychoanalysis
• Sigmund Freud

References

Resistance (psychoanalysis) Resources
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