What are defense mechanisms in psychology?

Defense mechanisms refer to unconscious psychological strategies employed by individuals to cope with anxiety and protect their self-esteem and sense of self. These mechanisms operate at a level beyond conscious thought and are not typically within an individual’s awareness. They function as a way for people to avoid feelings of anxiety or guilt that may arise from certain thoughts or experiences.

For instance, when someone feels threatened by a particular reality, they might engage in denial, refusing to accept the uncomfortable truth. Other examples of defense mechanisms include repression, where an individual may push distressing thoughts out of conscious awareness, and projection, which involves attributing unwanted feelings or thoughts to others. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial in psychology, as they highlight the ways individuals manage internal conflicts and cope with stress in their lives.

Other options do not align with the definition of defense mechanisms: strategies to enhance social interaction skills are more focused on interpersonal communication rather than internal coping. Conscious thoughts used to solve problems relate to active problem-solving techniques. Behavioral techniques for modifying habits involve more explicit, observable changes in behavior rather than unconscious mental processes.