Psychology

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Psychology

Defense Mechanisms

By Kendra Van Wagner, About.com

9 of 9

Other Defense Mechanisms

Since Freud first described the original defense mechanisms, other researchers have continued to describe other methods of reducing anxiety. Some of these defense mechanisms include:
  • Acting out - The individual copes with stress by engaging in actions rather than reflecting upon internal feelings.
  • Affiliation - Involves turning to other people for support.
  • Aim inhibition - The individual accepts a modified form of their original goal (i.e. becoming a high school basketball coach rather than a professional athlete.)
  • Altruism - Satisfying internal needs through helping others.
  • Avoidance - Refusing to deal with or encounter unpleasant objects or situations.
  • Compensation - Overachieving in one area to compensate for failures in another.
  • Humor - Pointing out the funny or ironic aspects of a situation.
  • Passive-aggression - Indirectly expressing anger.

While defense mechanisms are often thought of as negative reactions, some of these defenses can be helpful. For example, utilizing humor to overcome a stressful, anxiety-provoking situation can actually be an adaptive defense mechanism.

Suggested Reading:

Defense Mechanisms Quiz
The Id, Ego, and Superego
Theory of Psychosexual Development

Explore Psychology

About.com Special Features

Psychology

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Psychology
  4. Personality
  5. Theories of Personality
  6. Psychoanalytic Theories
  7. Other Defense Mechanisms

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.