Pronunciation: /dɪˈfɛns ˈmɛkəˌnɪzəm/
noun a mental process initiated unconsciously to protect oneself from difficult emotions or situations
A1 A defense mechanism is a way for someone to protect themselves from harm or unpleasant emotions.
A2 Children often use defense mechanisms like denial or regression when they feel overwhelmed.
B1 Learning about different defense mechanisms can help individuals better understand their own behavior.
B2 Therapists may help clients identify and address maladaptive defense mechanisms that are causing problems in their lives.
C1 Developing healthy defense mechanisms can lead to improved emotional resilience and coping skills.
C2 In psychoanalytic theory, defense mechanisms are seen as unconscious strategies used to protect the mind from distressing thoughts or feelings.
formal The human mind often employs defense mechanisms to protect itself from overwhelming emotions or thoughts.
informal When she feels stressed, her go-to defense mechanism is to retreat and avoid talking about it.
slang His defense mechanism when feeling attacked is to throw shade and make sarcastic remarks.
figurative Procrastination can be seen as a defense mechanism to avoid facing difficult tasks or responsibilities.
defense mechanisms
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defense mechanism
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to defend
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