Chapter 2: Problem 7

(a) Give an example from your own life of the use of one or more defense mechanisms. (b) What purpose did the defense mechanism(s) serve? (c) Were there any harmful effects? (d) since many of these mechanisms are used unconsciously, how can you (or anyone) know that they actually exist?

Short Answer

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A personal example of a defense mechanism is the use of projection during a conflict situation. This mechanism served to protect the self-esteem from feeling inadequate or at fault. It may have resulted in increased conflict and misunderstanding due to the misplaced blame. Acknowledging the unconscious use of projection requires noticing patterns of behavior and identifying triggers.

Step by step solution

Identify the defense mechanism

Reflect upon a situation where you may have reacted unusually or differently under pressure or stress. Identify the defense mechanism that is applicable to this situation. Defense mechanisms could include denial, repression, projection, displacement, reaction formation, regression, and sublimation among others.

Explain the purpose of the defense mechanism

Once the defense mechanism is identified, describe the purpose it served in your particular context. For example, if you used denial, you could say that it helped you avoid confronting a painful or threatening situation by refusing to acknowledge it.

Analyze any harmful effects

Reflect on the situation and determine if there were any negatives or harmful effects due to the use of this defense mechanism. This could include strain in relationships, increase in stress levels, or a loss of self-esteem among other effects.

Understand the unconscious use of defense mechanisms

Acknowledging that defense mechanisms are often used unconsciously can be challenging. However, with introspection and self-awareness, it is possible to realize their existence. Patterns of behavior, emotional reactions, and certain triggers can assist in the identification of unconscious defense mechanisms.

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(a) Give an example from your own life of the use of one or more defense mechanisms. (b) What purpose did the defense mechanism(s) serve? (c) Were there any harmful effects? (d) since many of these mechanisms are used unconsciously, how can you (or anyone) know that they actually exist?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify the defense mechanism

Explain the purpose of the defense mechanism

Analyze any harmful effects

Understand the unconscious use of defense mechanisms

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