What are defense mechanisms in psychology used for?

Defense mechanisms in psychology serve as unconscious strategies employed to manage anxiety and protect the ego from distressing thoughts and feelings. When individuals encounter situations that threaten their emotional well-being, these mechanisms allow them to mitigate feelings of anxiety by distorting reality in a way that is less threatening.

This psychological framework suggests that everyone uses defense mechanisms to some degree, particularly in response to stress or trauma. For example, an individual may engage in denial, repression, or rationalization to lessen the discomfort associated with unwanted emotions or experiences. Thus, their primary function is to maintain psychological equilibrium and protect the individual from the full impact of stressors.

While some mechanisms might unintentionally lead to a lack of self-awareness or hinder emotional expression and social interactions, their fundamental role remains centered on coping with anxiety and preserving the integrity of the self. Understanding this intrinsic purpose of defense mechanisms is crucial for recognizing their function in both everyday life and clinical settings.