Defence mechanisms

• Defence mechanisms

  > Unconscious strategies that the ego uses to manage conflict between the id and the superego

  > For example, depression - forcing a distressing memory out of the unconscious mind
• > The ego has a difficult job balancing the conflicting demands of the id and the superego so it uses defence mechanisms

  > These are unconscious and stop the ego from becoming overwhelmed with the conflicts

  > However, defence mechanisms can distort a persons reality and overuse can affect behaviour so they re not a long term solution
• Repression

  > Forcing a distressing memory out of the conscious mind to the unconscious

  > For example, forgetting the trauma of your favourite pet dying
• Denial

  > Refusing to acknowledge an unpleasant aspect of reality

  > For example, continuing to turn up for work even though you have been sacked
• Displacement

  > Transferring feelings from the true source of distressing emotion onto a less threatening substitute target

  > For example slamming the door after a row with your mum