{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","path":"/library/defense-mechanisms","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","title":"Defense Mechanisms","family":"Library detail","description":"Understand common defense mechanisms, how they impact mental health, and how therapy can support more adaptive coping strategies.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"public","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","wordpressId":"4700","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer#person","name":"Areesha Hosmer","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff#person","name":"Holly Schiff, Psy.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2025-05-23T12:11:03Z","dateModified":"2026-05-12T11:14:42Z","lastReviewed":"2025-05-23"},"content":{"html":"

Defense Mechanisms

Written by Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc.Medically reviewed by Holly Schiff, Psy.D.

Published on · Updated on

Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies that people use to protect themselves from internal conflict or emotional distress. These mechanisms are not inherently maladaptive; in many cases, they help people manage overwhelming experiences, preserve self-esteem, and maintain a functional sense of stability.

However, when defense mechanisms are rigid or overused, they may interfere with emotional openness, intimacy, and self-awareness. Understanding how these mechanisms form and influence behavior is essential for recognizing both the protective and limiting roles they can play in everyday life.

\"A

Key takeaways

  • Defense mechanisms are unconscious processes that protect against distressing feelings, thoughts, or internal conflict.
  • Flexible defenses can be useful, while rigid or overused defenses can limit self-awareness and strain relationships.
  • Therapy and reflective coping practices can help people recognize defensive patterns and develop more constructive responses.

What Are Defense Mechanisms?

Defense mechanisms are described as unconscious processes that help protect the mind from distressing thoughts, feelings, or internal conflicts⁠[1]. They act as a psychological buffer, allowing a person to maintain stability when they feel overwhelmed by stress or emotion.

According to studies, these mechanisms are linked to psychologist Sigmund Freud’s structural model of the mind. When the ego experiences pressure from the id or superego, it may activate a defense to avoid emotional discomfort or protect a person’s self-image⁠[1].

In other words, when someone feels internal conflict, such as wanting something they believe they shouldn’t have, or if they experience guilt over a thought or action, the mind may automatically generate ways to protect them from anxiety or distress. These unconscious, automatic strategies, known as defense mechanisms, help the person cope, even without their full awareness.

While defense mechanisms serve a protective function, repeated or rigid use may interfere with emotional development and interpersonal relationships. Rather than viewing these responses as flaws, research suggests they can be seen as meaningful indicators of how people attempt to manage emotional challenges⁠[2].

In clinical settings, identifying specific defense patterns may offer insight into a person’s internal world and guide therapeutic interventions when necessary. In the case of maladaptive defense mechanisms, or when such mechanisms result in unhealthy behaviors or dysfunction, therapy and other responses may be necessary. 

Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan

Defense mechanisms begin forming early in life and are shaped by how one learns to manage emotional discomfort. As children mature into adolescence, the defenses they rely on often shift in complexity. This suggests that defense mechanisms are not static reactions, but evolving strategies that reflect an individual’s growing capacity to manage emotional challenges⁠[1].

Several core functions explain why defense mechanisms emerge early and continue to play a role throughout life, including⁠[2]:

    \n
  •  Protecting the Self: In childhood, defenses help maintain self-worth when faced with perceived threats or unmet emotional needs.
    • \n
  •  Reducing Emotional Overload: Defense mechanisms limit conscious exposure to distressing thoughts or feelings, allowing for psychological continuity.
    • \n
  •  Reflecting Maturity: The type of defense used often aligns with one’s developmental stage, with more complex defenses emerging as people gain insight, wisdom, and control.
    • \n

Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms

While there are many recognized defense mechanisms, some appear more frequently across clinical settings and daily life. Understanding patterns in defensive mechanisms can offer insight into behavior that might otherwise feel confusing or impulsive.

Below are some common examples of defense mechanisms that reflect varying levels of psychological maturity⁠[3]:

    \n
  • Denial: Refusing to accept reality in order to avoid emotional pain. For example, a person might reject a serious diagnosis or insist a relationship is fine despite clear signs that something is wrong. This defense can provide temporary relief, but it may interfere with long-term adjustment.
    • \n
  • Projection: Attributing one’s own unwanted thoughts or feelings to someone else. A person who feels insecure may accuse others of being judgmental or hostile. This protects one’s self-image, but it can lead to interpersonal conflict.
    • \n
  • Displacement: Redirecting emotions from a threatening target to a safer one. Someone frustrated by a supervisor might express anger at a friend or family member instead. While this may relieve pressure in the moment, it can strain personal relationships.
    • \n
  • Intellectualization: Relying on logic or abstract reasoning to avoid emotional discomfort. After a breakup, someone may focus on analyzing relationship patterns without acknowledging their own grief. This defense can distance a person from painful emotions, but it may hinder emotional processing at the same time.
    • \n
  • Sublimation: Transforming difficult emotions into productive or socially acceptable outlets. For example, someone coping with anger might channel that energy into art, sports, or creative work. This is considered one of the more constructive defense mechanisms. 
    • \n

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Buck Black, LCSW

Anger and psychotherapy

View profile

Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms

While defense mechanisms can reduce emotional distress in the short term, some may interfere with long-term functioning or lead to behavioral disorders when used in excess. In such cases, they are referred to as maladaptive defense mechanisms. 

A study of 2,747 psychosomatic outpatients in China assessed defense styles and depressive symptoms. It considered:⁠[4]

    \n
  • Mature defenses
    • \n
  • Intermediate and immature defenses
    • \n

Participants were grouped using a depression questionnaire threshold, rather than comparing every type of psychiatric diagnosis.

The study linked greater depressive symptoms with more immature and intermediate defenses and fewer mature defenses. Important limits include:⁠[4]

    \n
  • The measurements describe associations, not proof that defenses cause depression.
    • \n
  • Findings from one outpatient sample may not generalize to everyone.
    • \n

Defense patterns can be useful to discuss in therapy without treating them as fixed traits or personal failings.

How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms?

If defense mechanisms are identified in adolescence, it can help predict further development of personality disorders⁠[1]. Therefore, the early identification of defense mechanisms through therapy can have great clinical significance.

A small study examined changes in defensive functioning during a 12-session inpatient psychotherapy program. Its findings offer evidence about change during treatment, rather than a promise that a particular defense will disappear.

In a study of 41 depressed inpatients receiving brief psychodynamic psychotherapy, researchers found:⁠[5]

    \n
  • Defensive functioning changed during treatment.
    • \n
  • Patterns of mature and immature defenses were associated with treatment response.
    • \n
  • Defenses observed during therapy also predicted response at a 12-month follow-up.
    • \n

Developing Awareness Through Therapy

Research has shown that therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can bring unconscious responses, such as defense mechanisms, into conscious awareness. This process leads to emotional regulation and healthier coping strategies, both of which can contribute to overall personal development.

CBT can help improve one’s defense mechanisms in the following ways⁠[6]:

    \n
  • Uncovering Unconscious Defenses: Therapy helps people become aware of emotional responses and defenses that operate outside of their conscious awareness.
    • \n
  • Building Coping Skills: CBT focuses on structured, conscious strategies that replace automatic, unhelpful reactions.
    • \n
  •  Shifting Defensive Patterns: Over time, therapy can help transform rigid or harmful defenses into more adaptive responses.
    • \n

Developing Healthier Coping Styles

Learning to recognize defense mechanisms and how they affect thoughts, emotions, and relationships takes time and reflection. Replacing them with more intentional, flexible coping strategies can improve emotional well-being and reduce reliance on patterns that no longer serve a helpful purpose. The following are strategies that one can use in order to manage and improve their defense mechanisms⁠[7].

Build Self-Awareness

Noticing when a defense mechanism is happening is the first step. Developing self-awareness makes it easier to recognize automatic reactions and consider whether they are helping or hindering in the specific moment. 

Practice Adaptive Coping Skills

Coping strategies such as mindfulness, setting boundaries, and asking for support can help manage distress more effectively than unconscious defenses. These tools offer healthier ways to respond to uncomfortable emotions without suppressing or distorting them.

Seek Professional Support

Both psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies can help people understand their defense patterns and replace them with more constructive responses. Therapy offers a structured space to reflect on emotional reactions and build skills that support long-term well-being⁠[7].

Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms

Defense mechanisms are part of how the mind learns to protect itself, developed through the different stages of an individual’s life. They can be helpful tools, especially in times of stress or emotional discomfort.

While some defenses can be positive and adaptive, others may become limiting when they prevent emotional insight or strain relationships. Over time, these patterns can become automatic, making it difficult to recognize their impact without intentional reflection.

Recognizing these internal processes is the first step toward building healthier ways of coping and healing from any unhealthy defense mechanisms one may have. With greater self-awareness and the right support, it is possible to shift toward more constructive emotional habits, strengthening both mental health and personal growth.

References

  1. Bailey, R., & Pico, J. (2023). Defense mechanisms. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed May 11 2025.
  2. Cramer, P. (2015). Understanding defense mechanisms. Psychodynamic Psychiatry, 43(4), 523-552. guilfordjournals.com. Accessed May 11 2025.
  3. Cherry, K. (2023, July 24). Defense mechanisms. Verywell Mind. verywellmind.com. Accessed October 10 2026.
  4. Ma, D., Cao, J., Wei, J., & Jiang, J. (2024). Immature defense mechanisms mediate the relationship between negative life events and depressive symptoms. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1341288. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.
  5. de Roten, Y., Djillali, S., Crettaz von Roten, F., Despland, J.-N., & Ambresin, G. (2021). Defense Mechanisms and Treatment Response in Depressed Inpatients. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 633939. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.
  6. Palmieri, A., Fernandez, K. C., Cariolato, Y., Kleinbub, J. R., Salvatore, S., & Gross, J. J. (2022). Emotion regulation in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapy: An integrative perspective. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 19(2), 103. clinicalneuropsychiatry.org. Accessed October 10 2026.
  7. Di Giuseppe, M., & Perry, J. C. (2021). The hierarchy of defense mechanisms: assessing defensive functioning with the defense mechanisms rating scales Q-sort. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 718440. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc.

MSc

Areesha Hosmer is a writer with an academic background in psychology and a focus on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Holly Schiff, Psy.D.

Psy.D.

Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families.

Reviewed
\"\"

Related community

Emotional Health

Explore feelings, self-awareness, and the emotional experiences that shape everyday life.

","text":"Home Library Emotional Health Defense Mechanisms Defense Mechanisms Written by Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc.Medically reviewed by Holly Schiff, Psy.D. Published on May 23, 2025 · Updated on May 12, 2026 Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies that people use to protect themselves from internal conflict or emotional distress. These mechanisms are not inherently maladaptive; in many cases, they help people manage overwhelming experiences, preserve self-esteem, and maintain a functional sense of stability. However, when defense mechanisms are rigid or overused, they may interfere with emotional openness, intimacy, and self-awareness. Understanding how these mechanisms form and influence behavior is essential for recognizing both the protective and limiting roles they can play in everyday life. Key takeaways Defense mechanisms are unconscious processes that protect against distressing feelings, thoughts, or internal conflict. Flexible defenses can be useful, while rigid or overused defenses can limit self-awareness and strain relationships. Therapy and reflective coping practices can help people recognize defensive patterns and develop more constructive responses. What Are Defense Mechanisms? Defense mechanisms are described as unconscious processes that help protect the mind from distressing thoughts, feelings, or internal conflicts⁠[1]. They act as a psychological buffer, allowing a person to maintain stability when they feel overwhelmed by stress or emotion. According to studies, these mechanisms are linked to psychologist Sigmund Freud’s structural model of the mind. When the ego experiences pressure from the id or superego, it may activate a defense to avoid emotional discomfort or protect a person’s self-image⁠[1]. In other words, when someone feels internal conflict, such as wanting something they believe they shouldn’t have, or if they experience guilt over a thought or action, the mind may automatically generate ways to protect them from anxiety or distress. These unconscious, automatic strategies, known as defense mechanisms, help the person cope, even without their full awareness. While defense mechanisms serve a protective function, repeated or rigid use may interfere with emotional development and interpersonal relationships. Rather than viewing these responses as flaws, research suggests they can be seen as meaningful indicators of how people attempt to manage emotional challenges⁠[2]. In clinical settings, identifying specific defense patterns may offer insight into a person’s internal world and guide therapeutic interventions when necessary. In the case of maladaptive defense mechanisms, or when such mechanisms result in unhealthy behaviors or dysfunction, therapy and other responses may be necessary. Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan Defense mechanisms begin forming early in life and are shaped by how one learns to manage emotional discomfort. As children mature into adolescence, the defenses they rely on often shift in complexity. This suggests that defense mechanisms are not static reactions, but evolving strategies that reflect an individual’s growing capacity to manage emotional challenges⁠[1]. Several core functions explain why defense mechanisms emerge early and continue to play a role throughout life, including⁠[2]: Protecting the Self: In childhood, defenses help maintain self-worth when faced with perceived threats or unmet emotional needs. Reducing Emotional Overload: Defense mechanisms limit conscious exposure to distressing thoughts or feelings, allowing for psychological continuity. Reflecting Maturity: The type of defense used often aligns with one’s developmental stage, with more complex defenses emerging as people gain insight, wisdom, and control. Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms While there are many recognized defense mechanisms, some appear more frequently across clinical settings and daily life. Understanding patterns in defensive mechanisms can offer insight into behavior that might otherwise feel confusing or impulsive. Below are some common examples of defense mechanisms that reflect varying levels of psychological maturity⁠[3]: Denial: Refusing to accept reality in order to avoid emotional pain. For example, a person might reject a serious diagnosis or insist a relationship is fine despite clear signs that something is wrong. This defense can provide temporary relief, but it may interfere with long-term adjustment. Projection: Attributing one’s own unwanted thoughts or feelings to someone else. A person who feels insecure may accuse others of being judgmental or hostile. This protects one’s self-image, but it can lead to interpersonal conflict. Displacement: Redirecting emotions from a threatening target to a safer one. Someone frustrated by a supervisor might express anger at a friend or family member instead. While this may relieve pressure in the moment, it can strain personal relationships. Intellectualization: Relying on logic or abstract reasoning to avoid emotional discomfort. After a breakup, someone may focus on analyzing relationship patterns without acknowledging their own grief. This defense can distance a person from painful emotions, but it may hinder emotional processing at the same time. Sublimation: Transforming difficult emotions into productive or socially acceptable outlets. For example, someone coping with anger might channel that energy into art, sports, or creative work. This is considered one of the more constructive defense mechanisms. Subject matter expert Buck Black, LCSW Anger and psychotherapy View profile Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms While defense mechanisms can reduce emotional distress in the short term, some may interfere with long-term functioning or lead to behavioral disorders when used in excess. In such cases, they are referred to as maladaptive defense mechanisms. A study of 2,747 psychosomatic outpatients in China assessed defense styles and depressive symptoms. It considered:⁠[4] Mature defenses Intermediate and immature defenses Participants were grouped using a depression questionnaire threshold, rather than comparing every type of psychiatric diagnosis. The study linked greater depressive symptoms with more immature and intermediate defenses and fewer mature defenses. Important limits include:⁠[4] The measurements describe associations, not proof that defenses cause depression. Findings from one outpatient sample may not generalize to everyone. Defense patterns can be useful to discuss in therapy without treating them as fixed traits or personal failings. How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms? If defense mechanisms are identified in adolescence, it can help predict further development of personality disorders⁠[1]. Therefore, the early identification of defense mechanisms through therapy can have great clinical significance. A small study examined changes in defensive functioning during a 12-session inpatient psychotherapy program. Its findings offer evidence about change during treatment, rather than a promise that a particular defense will disappear. In a study of 41 depressed inpatients receiving brief psychodynamic psychotherapy, researchers found:⁠[5] Defensive functioning changed during treatment. Patterns of mature and immature defenses were associated with treatment response. Defenses observed during therapy also predicted response at a 12-month follow-up. Developing Awareness Through Therapy Research has shown that therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can bring unconscious responses, such as defense mechanisms, into conscious awareness. This process leads to emotional regulation and healthier coping strategies, both of which can contribute to overall personal development. CBT can help improve one’s defense mechanisms in the following ways⁠[6]: Uncovering Unconscious Defenses: Therapy helps people become aware of emotional responses and defenses that operate outside of their conscious awareness. Building Coping Skills: CBT focuses on structured, conscious strategies that replace automatic, unhelpful reactions. Shifting Defensive Patterns: Over time, therapy can help transform rigid or harmful defenses into more adaptive responses. Developing Healthier Coping Styles Learning to recognize defense mechanisms and how they affect thoughts, emotions, and relationships takes time and reflection. Replacing them with more intentional, flexible coping strategies can improve emotional well-being and reduce reliance on patterns that no longer serve a helpful purpose. The following are strategies that one can use in order to manage and improve their defense mechanisms⁠[7]. Build Self-Awareness Noticing when a defense mechanism is happening is the first step. Developing self-awareness makes it easier to recognize automatic reactions and consider whether they are helping or hindering in the specific moment. Practice Adaptive Coping Skills Coping strategies such as mindfulness, setting boundaries, and asking for support can help manage distress more effectively than unconscious defenses. These tools offer healthier ways to respond to uncomfortable emotions without suppressing or distorting them. Seek Professional Support Both psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies can help people understand their defense patterns and replace them with more constructive responses. Therapy offers a structured space to reflect on emotional reactions and build skills that support long-term well-being⁠[7]. Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms Defense mechanisms are part of how the mind learns to protect itself, developed through the different stages of an individual’s life. They can be helpful tools, especially in times of stress or emotional discomfort. While some defenses can be positive and adaptive, others may become limiting when they prevent emotional insight or strain relationships. Over time, these patterns can become automatic, making it difficult to recognize their impact without intentional reflection. Recognizing these internal processes is the first step toward building healthier ways of coping and healing from any unhealthy defense mechanisms one may have. With greater self-awareness and the right support, it is possible to shift toward more constructive emotional habits, strengthening both mental health and personal growth. References Bailey, R., & Pico, J. (2023). Defense mechanisms. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed May 11 2025. Cramer, P. (2015). Understanding defense mechanisms. Psychodynamic Psychiatry, 43(4), 523-552. guilfordjournals.com. Accessed May 11 2025. Cherry, K. (2023, July 24). Defense mechanisms. Verywell Mind. verywellmind.com. Accessed October 10 2026. Ma, D., Cao, J., Wei, J., & Jiang, J. (2024). Immature defense mechanisms mediate the relationship between negative life events and depressive symptoms. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1341288. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026. de Roten, Y., Djillali, S., Crettaz von Roten, F., Despland, J.-N., & Ambresin, G. (2021). Defense Mechanisms and Treatment Response in Depressed Inpatients. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 633939. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026. Palmieri, A., Fernandez, K. C., Cariolato, Y., Kleinbub, J. R., Salvatore, S., & Gross, J. J. (2022). Emotion regulation in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapy: An integrative perspective. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 19(2), 103. clinicalneuropsychiatry.org. Accessed October 10 2026. Di Giuseppe, M., & Perry, J. C. (2021). The hierarchy of defense mechanisms: assessing defensive functioning with the defense mechanisms rating scales Q-sort. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 718440. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc. MSc Areesha Hosmer is a writer with an academic background in psychology and a focus on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Published May 23, 2025 Updated May 12, 2026 Medical Reviewer Holly Schiff, Psy.D. Psy.D. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families. Reviewed May 23, 2025 Related community Emotional Health Explore feelings, self-awareness, and the emotional experiences that shape everyday life. Table of contentsChoose a section What Are Defense Mechanisms? Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms? Developing Awareness Through Therapy Developing Healthier Coping Styles Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms View more","wordCount":1836},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Emotional Health","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Defense Mechanisms","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/413e36e74a135121954b951a.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/413e36e74a135121954b951a.webp","width":1200,"height":593,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A woman smiles in the sunshine while wearing a straw hat."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer#person","name":"Areesha Hosmer","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer","jobTitle":"MSc","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/98c7479dd0c3deaf63c6a3e7.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/areeshahosmer?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BTG9mvXJ%2FSQSE1tkc87jxPA%3D%3D"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff#person","name":"Holly Schiff, Psy.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff","jobTitle":"Psy.D.","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/af4ecdb78008ac81cd3aa271.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-ann-schiff-psy-d-21b53821/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","headline":"Defense Mechanisms","description":"Understand common defense mechanisms, how they impact mental health, and how therapy can support more adaptive coping strategies.","wordCount":1406,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Emotional Health","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Bailey, R., & Pico, J. (2023). Defense mechanisms. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed May 11 2025.","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559106/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Cramer, P. (2015). Understanding defense mechanisms. Psychodynamic Psychiatry, 43(4), 523-552. guilfordjournals.com. Accessed May 11 2025.","url":"https://guilfordjournals.com/doi/epdf/10.1521/pdps.2015.43.4.523?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Cherry, K. (2023, July 24). Defense mechanisms. Verywell Mind. verywellmind.com. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.verywellmind.com/defense-mechanisms-2795960?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Ma, D., Cao, J., Wei, J., & Jiang, J. (2024). Immature defense mechanisms mediate the relationship between negative life events and depressive symptoms. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1341288. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1341288/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"de Roten, Y., Djillali, S., Crettaz von Roten, F., Despland, J.-N., & Ambresin, G. (2021). Defense Mechanisms and Treatment Response in Depressed Inpatients. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 633939. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633939/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Palmieri, A., Fernandez, K. C., Cariolato, Y., Kleinbub, J. R., Salvatore, S., & Gross, J. J. (2022). Emotion regulation in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapy: An integrative perspective. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 19(2), 103. clinicalneuropsychiatry.org. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.clinicalneuropsychiatry.org/download/emotion-regulation-in-psychodynamic-and-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-an-integrative-perspective/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Di Giuseppe, M., & Perry, J. C. (2021). The hierarchy of defense mechanisms: assessing defensive functioning with the defense mechanisms rating scales Q-sort. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 718440. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.718440/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","author":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer#person"}],"image":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#primaryimage"},"about":{"@type":"Thing","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health#topic","name":"Emotional Health"},"datePublished":"2025-05-23T12:11:03Z","dateModified":"2026-05-12T11:14:42Z"},{"@type":"MedicalWebPage","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#webpage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","name":"Defense Mechanisms","description":"Understand common defense mechanisms, how they impact mental health, and how therapy can support more adaptive coping strategies.","inLanguage":"en-US","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health#webpage"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#article"},"relatedLink":["https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/basic-and-intermediate-defense-mechanisms","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/importance-and-dimensions-of-self-esteem","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-resilience","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/stress","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/what-is-dark-empath","https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/buck-black"],"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"medicalAudience":{"@type":"MedicalAudience","audienceType":"General public"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#primaryimage"},"reviewedBy":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff#person"},"about":{"@type":"Thing","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health#topic","name":"Emotional Health"},"citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Bailey, R., & Pico, J. (2023). Defense mechanisms. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed May 11 2025.","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559106/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Cramer, P. (2015). Understanding defense mechanisms. Psychodynamic Psychiatry, 43(4), 523-552. guilfordjournals.com. Accessed May 11 2025.","url":"https://guilfordjournals.com/doi/epdf/10.1521/pdps.2015.43.4.523?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Cherry, K. (2023, July 24). Defense mechanisms. Verywell Mind. verywellmind.com. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.verywellmind.com/defense-mechanisms-2795960?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Ma, D., Cao, J., Wei, J., & Jiang, J. (2024). Immature defense mechanisms mediate the relationship between negative life events and depressive symptoms. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1341288. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1341288/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"de Roten, Y., Djillali, S., Crettaz von Roten, F., Despland, J.-N., & Ambresin, G. (2021). Defense Mechanisms and Treatment Response in Depressed Inpatients. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 633939. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633939/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Palmieri, A., Fernandez, K. C., Cariolato, Y., Kleinbub, J. R., Salvatore, S., & Gross, J. J. (2022). Emotion regulation in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapy: An integrative perspective. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 19(2), 103. clinicalneuropsychiatry.org. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.clinicalneuropsychiatry.org/download/emotion-regulation-in-psychodynamic-and-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-an-integrative-perspective/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Di Giuseppe, M., & Perry, J. C. (2021). The hierarchy of defense mechanisms: assessing defensive functioning with the defense mechanisms rating scales Q-sort. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 718440. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.718440/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"}],"datePublished":"2025-05-23T12:11:03Z","dateModified":"2026-05-12T11:14:42Z","lastReviewed":"2025-05-23"}]},"representations":{"html":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","json":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/data/library/defense-mechanisms.json","jsonLd":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/data/library/defense-mechanisms.ld.json"},"$schema":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/data/page.schema.json","images":[{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/413e36e74a135121954b951a.webp","alt":"A woman smiles in the sunshine while wearing a straw hat.","width":1200,"height":593},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/94e04242697528fe04b83271.jpg","alt":"","width":64,"height":64},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/98c7479dd0c3deaf63c6a3e7.jpg","alt":"","width":64,"height":64},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/af4ecdb78008ac81cd3aa271.jpg","alt":"","width":64,"height":64},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/2fb1cba1bd2172792e933c1c.webp","alt":"","width":1200,"height":600}],"sections":[{"id":"key-takeaways","title":"Key takeaways","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#key-takeaways"},{"id":"what-are-defense-mechanisms","title":"What Are Defense Mechanisms?","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#what-are-defense-mechanisms"},{"id":"defense-mechanisms-across-the-lifespan","title":"Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms-across-the-lifespan"},{"id":"common-examples-of-defense-mechanisms","title":"Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#common-examples-of-defense-mechanisms"},{"id":"maladaptive-defense-mechanisms","title":"Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#maladaptive-defense-mechanisms"},{"id":"how-does-therapy-impact-defense-mechanisms","title":"How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms?","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#how-does-therapy-impact-defense-mechanisms"},{"id":"developing-awareness-through-therapy","title":"Developing Awareness Through Therapy","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#developing-awareness-through-therapy"},{"id":"developing-healthier-coping-styles","title":"Developing Healthier Coping Styles","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#developing-healthier-coping-styles"},{"id":"build-self-awareness","title":"Build Self-Awareness","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#build-self-awareness"},{"id":"practice-adaptive-coping-skills","title":"Practice Adaptive Coping Skills","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#practice-adaptive-coping-skills"},{"id":"seek-professional-support","title":"Seek Professional Support","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#seek-professional-support"},{"id":"moving-toward-healthier-mechanisms","title":"Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#moving-toward-healthier-mechanisms"}],"references":[{"number":1,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms","text":"Bailey, R., & Pico, J. (2023). Defense mechanisms. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed May 11 2025.","links":[{"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559106/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"National Library of Medicine"}],"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559106/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":2,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#understanding-defense-mechanisms","text":"Cramer, P. (2015). Understanding defense mechanisms. Psychodynamic Psychiatry, 43(4), 523-552. guilfordjournals.com. Accessed May 11 2025.","links":[{"url":"https://guilfordjournals.com/doi/epdf/10.1521/pdps.2015.43.4.523?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"guilfordjournals.com"}],"url":"https://guilfordjournals.com/doi/epdf/10.1521/pdps.2015.43.4.523?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":3,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms-source","text":"Cherry, K. (2023, July 24). Defense mechanisms. Verywell Mind. verywellmind.com. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.verywellmind.com/defense-mechanisms-2795960?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"verywellmind.com"}],"url":"https://www.verywellmind.com/defense-mechanisms-2795960?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":4,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-styles-internalizing-externalizing-disorders","text":"Ma, D., Cao, J., Wei, J., & Jiang, J. (2024). Immature defense mechanisms mediate the relationship between negative life events and depressive symptoms. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1341288. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1341288/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Frontiers"}],"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1341288/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":5,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#comparison-change-defense-mechanisms-over-course-psychotherapy-patients-depression","text":"de Roten, Y., Djillali, S., Crettaz von Roten, F., Despland, J.-N., & Ambresin, G. (2021). Defense Mechanisms and Treatment Response in Depressed Inpatients. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 633939. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633939/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Frontiers"}],"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633939/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":6,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#emotion-regulation-psychodynamic-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-integrative-perspective","text":"Palmieri, A., Fernandez, K. C., Cariolato, Y., Kleinbub, J. R., Salvatore, S., & Gross, J. J. (2022). Emotion regulation in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapy: An integrative perspective. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 19(2), 103. clinicalneuropsychiatry.org. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.clinicalneuropsychiatry.org/download/emotion-regulation-in-psychodynamic-and-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-an-integrative-perspective/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"clinicalneuropsychiatry.org"}],"url":"https://www.clinicalneuropsychiatry.org/download/emotion-regulation-in-psychodynamic-and-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-an-integrative-perspective/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":7,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#hierarchy-defense-mechanisms-assessing-defensive-functioning-defense-mechanisms-rating","text":"Di Giuseppe, M., & Perry, J. C. (2021). The hierarchy of defense mechanisms: assessing defensive functioning with the defense mechanisms rating scales Q-sort. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 718440. Frontiers. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.718440/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Frontiers"}],"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.718440/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"}],"relatedReading":[],"links":[{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","label":"Home"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library","label":"Library"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health","label":"Emotional Health"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer","label":"Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc."},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff","label":"Holly Schiff, Psy.D."},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/case-studies","label":"self-awareness"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/stress","label":"overwhelmed by stress or emotion"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/sigmund-freud","label":"Sigmund Freud"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/anxiety","label":"anxiety or distress"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health","label":"emotional development"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#understanding-defense-mechanisms","label":"[2]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/basic-and-intermediate-defense-mechanisms","label":"Defense mechanisms"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#understanding-defense-mechanisms","label":"[2]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms-source","label":"[3]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/relationships","label":"personal relationships"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/buck-black","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/buck-black","label":"Buck Black, LCSW"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/buck-black","label":"View profile"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-styles-internalizing-externalizing-disorders","label":"[4]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-styles-internalizing-externalizing-disorders","label":"[4]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#comparison-change-defense-mechanisms-over-course-psychotherapy-patients-depression","label":"[5]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/cognitive-behavioral-therapy","label":"cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/personal-development","label":"personal development"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#emotion-regulation-psychodynamic-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-integrative-perspective","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#hierarchy-defense-mechanisms-assessing-defensive-functioning-defense-mechanisms-rating","label":"[7]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/psychological-self-tools","label":"Developing self-awareness"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/mindfulness-meditation","label":"mindfulness"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/psychotherapy","label":"Therapy offers a structured space"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#hierarchy-defense-mechanisms-assessing-defensive-functioning-defense-mechanisms-rating","label":"[7]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/mental-health","label":"mental health"},{"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559106/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"National Library of Medicine"},{"url":"https://guilfordjournals.com/doi/epdf/10.1521/pdps.2015.43.4.523?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"guilfordjournals.com"},{"url":"https://www.verywellmind.com/defense-mechanisms-2795960?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"verywellmind.com"},{"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1341288/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Frontiers"},{"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633939/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Frontiers"},{"url":"https://www.clinicalneuropsychiatry.org/download/emotion-regulation-in-psychodynamic-and-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-an-integrative-perspective/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"clinicalneuropsychiatry.org"},{"url":"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.718440/full?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-defense-mechanisms&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Frontiers"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs","label":"The Clinical Affairs Team"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy","label":"Editorial Policy"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/areesha-hosmer","label":"Areesha Hosmer, M.Sc."},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/holly-schiff","label":"Holly Schiff, Psy.D."},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/emotional-health","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/emotional-health","label":"Emotional Health"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#what-are-defense-mechanisms","label":"What Are Defense Mechanisms?"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#defense-mechanisms-across-the-lifespan","label":"Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#common-examples-of-defense-mechanisms","label":"Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#maladaptive-defense-mechanisms","label":"Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#how-does-therapy-impact-defense-mechanisms","label":"How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms?"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#developing-awareness-through-therapy","label":"Developing Awareness Through Therapy"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#developing-healthier-coping-styles","label":"Developing Healthier Coping Styles"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms#moving-toward-healthier-mechanisms","label":"Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms"}],"seo":{"title":"Defense Mechanisms: Types, Examples and Their Role in Therapy","description":"Understand common defense mechanisms, how they impact mental health, and how therapy can support more adaptive coping strategies.","canonical":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms","robots":"index,follow","socialImage":{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/ec9b0cb47c0207d45e88634d.png","width":1200,"height":630,"alt":"MentalHealth.com — Library","type":"image/png","sitemapGroup":"library"}},"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"name":"Library","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"name":"Emotional Health","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/emotional-health"},{"name":"Defense Mechanisms","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/defense-mechanisms"}],"subjectMatterExpert":{"name":"Buck Black","url":"/people/buck-black","profileId":"6448","topic":"anger","focus":"Anger and psychotherapy","selectionBasis":"Documented expertise in the existing published profile","reviewAttribution":false},"keyTakeaways":["Defense mechanisms are unconscious processes that protect against distressing feelings, thoughts, or internal conflict.","Flexible defenses can be useful, while rigid or overused defenses can limit self-awareness and strain relationships.","Therapy and reflective coping practices can help people recognize defensive patterns and develop more constructive responses."],"introduction":{"html":"Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies that people use to protect themselves from internal conflict or emotional distress. These mechanisms are not inherently maladaptive; in many cases, they help people manage overwhelming experiences, preserve self-esteem, and maintain a functional sense of stability. \n\nHowever, when defense mechanisms are rigid or overused, they may interfere with emotional openness, intimacy, and self-awareness. Understanding how these mechanisms form and influence behavior is essential for recognizing both the protective and limiting roles they can play in everyday life.","text":"Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies that people use to protect themselves from internal conflict or emotional distress. These mechanisms are not inherently maladaptive; in many cases, they help people manage overwhelming experiences, preserve self-esteem, and maintain a functional sense of stability. However, when defense mechanisms are rigid or overused, they may interfere with emotional openness, intimacy, and self-awareness. Understanding how these mechanisms form and influence behavior is essential for recognizing both the protective and limiting roles they can play in everyday life.","sourceField":"hero"},"navigation":[{"label":"What Are Defense Mechanisms?","href":"#what-are-defense-mechanisms","heading":"What Are Defense Mechanisms?"},{"label":"Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan","href":"#defense-mechanisms-across-the-lifespan","heading":"Defense Mechanisms Across the Lifespan"},{"label":"Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms","href":"#common-examples-of-defense-mechanisms","heading":"Common Examples of Defense Mechanisms"},{"label":"Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms","href":"#maladaptive-defense-mechanisms","heading":"Maladaptive Defense Mechanisms"},{"label":"How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms?","href":"#how-does-therapy-impact-defense-mechanisms","heading":"How Does Therapy Impact Defense Mechanisms?"},{"label":"Developing Awareness Through Therapy","href":"#developing-awareness-through-therapy","heading":"Developing Awareness Through Therapy"},{"label":"Developing Healthier Coping Styles","href":"#developing-healthier-coping-styles","heading":"Developing Healthier Coping Styles"},{"label":"Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms","href":"#moving-toward-healthier-mechanisms","heading":"Moving Toward Healthier Mechanisms"}],"relatedCommunity":{"community":"/community/emotional-health","basis":"topic match"},"referencePresentation":"Numbered author–date references with italic work titles, publication details, linked source names, and documented access dates. Missing publication dates use n.d.","collections":[]}