We All Have to Figure Out How to Cope With Stress in Life. 

Stressors, anxiety, crises and emergencies are a part of life none of us can avoid.  During such times, we all use psychological manuvers  called “defense mechanisms” to protect us against stress and the anxiety it causes.

The purpose of a defense mechanism  is to reduce anxiety so that we may continue to function and not be overwhelmed by the stressor. Defense mechanisms are the same as coping mechanisms.

 Has anyone ever told you were being defensive? Did you know what they meant? What it means to be defensive is to be using a “defense mechanism” to protect yourself  from a perceived threat.  Defense mechanisms are methods of coping that we all use; they are normal and necessary for our mental health. Like anything else however, they can be used excessively. There are some defense mechanisms that are more mature and  healthier then others.

Types of Defense Mechanisms

Some defense mechanisms are considered to be less healthy then others. Examples of “higher level” defenses are: denial, suppression , and intellectualization. The best example of suppression I know, is uttered by Scarlett O’Hara in the last scene of Gone with the Wind . She says “I will think about it tomorrow”.  As she cannot face the prospect of Rhett’s being gone she consciously puts the though out of her mind.  This is suppression, and is very helpful for the short term. Of course you can’t put off thinking about important things indefinitely.

Examples of lower level (or immature) defense mechanisms are projection, and splitting. These are often used by persons with personality disorders.

What is a Healthy Coping (Defense) Mechanism?

There is no one best defense mechanism. The healthiest of coping styles use a variety of defense mechanisms. When only one or two types of defense mechanism are used exclusively,  the person is rigid and may have a personality disorder.  Flexibility in coping style and defense mechanism  is the true measure of psychological health. 

Watch for later posts about types of defense mechanisms and coping.