In traditional psychology and psychoanalysis, defence mechanisms describe the ways people deal with emotions and thoughts. Below is a definition of common defence mechanisms and considerations for IEMT practitioners when addressing them.

The most prominent defense mechanisms were framed within the context of internal conflict. For example, repression (pushing unwanted thoughts out of conscious awareness) or projection (attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings to others) evokes an image of the mind as a battlefield, where different parts of the psyche are in direct opposition. This implies that the psyche is inherently antagonistic, always fighting between conscious and unconscious forces, the ego and the id, or between individual impulses and societal expectations.

While the concept of defense mechanisms remains foundational in psychoanalytic theory, its reliance on war and force-based metaphors has limitations. These models risk pathologizing internal psychological processes and framing the psyche as a battleground, where different parts of the self are in constant conflict. This view may oversimplify the complexity of human experience, neglecting more integrative or cooperative ways of dealing with emotional conflict. In recent years, more dynamic and relational models of the self have emerged that offer more nuanced, holistic, and compassionate ways to understand the psychological defense processes, without needing to resort to combative imagery.

Definition: Repression occurs when an individual unconsciously avoids thinking about distressing events. For example, a person might forget experiences of abuse or be unaware of underlying anger toward family members.

Thought: While repression can occur in all clients, practitioners should be cautious about suggesting it outright, as this can contribute to the creation of false memories. This issue was notably evident in methods like recovered memory therapy.

Definition: During stressful situations, individuals may revert to behaviours from an earlier developmental stage. For instance, when severely ill, a person might behave childishly, seeking comfort and care from others.

Thought: This is observable in IEMT, particularly in Identity elements, where people express different time perspectives. The K-Pattern question, “When is the first time you can remember feeling this feeling?” intentionally induces a useful form of regression. However, an absence of memories should not be automatically interpreted as repression.

Definition: Denial occurs when an individual refuses to accept reality, such as rejecting a terminal diagnosis and avoiding treatment.

Thought: Denial is prevalent, often reinforced by societal trends like toxic positivity and self-gaslighting. When denial is unrecognized, Metaphors of Movement can be an effective tool for addressing different forms of Kinesthetic Denial.

Definition: Projection involves attributing one’s negative emotions or traits to others. For instance, someone feeling inadequate may accuse others of trying to undermine them.

Thought: This resembles the three-stage overreaction model, where people externalize their internal states onto others.

Definition: Reaction formation occurs when an individual suppresses their true feelings and behaves in the opposite manner. For example, a parent who resents having children might become overly affectionate.

Thought: This coping mechanism often involves prioritizing others’ needs over personal well-being. Provocative therapy and PCW can help uncover genuine emotions. Clients may also be adhering to societal values that keep them in undesirable situations.

Definition: Identification involves emulating admired individuals or adopting traits out of fear. This process contributes to superego development and cultural adaptation.

Thought: In Advanced IEMT, modeled states represent learned emotional and behavioral patterns. Recognizing when clients are influenced by identification is essential. Anger, for example, often stems from modeled states.

Definition: Displacement occurs when individuals redirect emotions toward a safer target. For example, after being reprimanded at work, a person might vent frustration on their family.

Thought: Clients often recognize displacement once emotional imprints are addressed, helping them trace the true source of their reactions.

Definition: Rationalization involves justifying unacceptable behaviors or thoughts with seemingly logical explanations. For instance, a professor might challenge school policies under the guise of advocating for students, while the real motivation lies elsewhere.

Thought: This may result from excessive analytical thinking or an over-reliance on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

Definition: Isolation separates emotional responses from thoughts or behaviors. For example, a grieving parent may suppress their own emotions to support their spouse.

Thought: While isolation serves as a temporary coping mechanism, prolonged use can lead to Kinesthetic Denial. Providing emotional support is crucial during these times.

Definition: Sublimation channels unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable outlets. For instance, artists often draw inspiration from personal hardships.

Thought: A prime example of sublimation is the TV series *Dexter*. However, reliance on this mechanism alone can eventually lead to negative consequences.

Psychological Defense Mechanisms: A New Perspective (bradbowins.com) - Comprehensive overview of defense mechanisms from a modern perspective

The Hierarchy of Defense Mechanisms: Assessing ... - Frontiers (frontiersin.org) - Research on the hierarchical structure of defense mechanisms

The Mind's Shield: Explore Sigmund Freud's Defense Mechanisms (achology.com) - Detailed exploration of Freud's original defense mechanism theories

20 Defense Mechanisms We Use to Protect Ourselves - Verywell Mind (verywellmind.com) - Practical guide to common defense mechanisms and their impact on daily life