question_answer

Explain concept of defense mechanism.                                                                                         (Delhi Board 2014)

Or

Explain interactional approach of personality.                                                                               (CBSE 2013)

Answer:

Ans.     Ego Defense Mechanisms

A defense 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 behavior seem reasonable and acceptable.