Explain concept of defence mechanism.
Ego Defence Mechanisms
• A defence mechanism is a way of reducing anxiety by distorting reality unconsciously which are regulated by the ego.
• It defends the ego against the awareness of the instinctual needs.
• It is normal and adaptive; people who use defence mechanisms are often unaware of doing so.
1. Repression: Anxiety provoking behaviours or thoughts are totally dismissed by the unconscious. It is unconscious forgetting.
2. Projection: People attribute their own traits to others.
3. Denial: A person totally refuses to accept reality.
4. Reaction Formation: A person defends against anxiety by adopting behaviours opposite to his/her true feelings.
5. Rationalization: A person tries to make unreasonable feelings or behaviour seem reasonable and acceptable.
