Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

The defense mechanism that involves projecting one's own unacceptable thoughts onto others is called what?

1. Displacement

2. Projection

3. Denial

4. Rationalization

The correct answer is: Projection

The defense mechanism referred to in the question is projection. This mechanism involves individuals attributing their own unacceptable feelings, thoughts, or impulses to others rather than acknowledging them in themselves. For instance, someone who has feelings of hostility might accuse others of being angry or hostile instead. This psychological defense helps individuals avoid facing their inner discomfort and anxiety by externalizing it onto others, thus providing a sense of relief from their own troubling emotions. Understanding projection is essential in the context of personality theory because it highlights how individuals cope with internal conflicts and protect their self-esteem. By projecting their unwanted feelings onto others, they might not only evade personal responsibility but also create interpersonal conflicts rooted in misunderstanding or misattribution of motivations.