Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

What role do defense mechanisms play in Freud's psychoanalytic theory?

1. They protect the ego

2. They enhance relationships

3. They promote unconscious desires

4. They develop personality traits

The correct answer is: They protect the ego

In Freud's psychoanalytic theory, defense mechanisms serve the critical function of protecting the ego from anxiety and distress caused by conflicting desires, unresolved conflicts, and external stressors. The ego, which operates on the reality principle, often finds itself at odds with the id's primal urges and the superego's moral demands. To manage these internal conflicts and reduce psychological tension, the ego employs various defense mechanisms such as repression, denial, projection, and rationalization. These mechanisms are largely unconscious processes that serve to shield the individual from feelings of guilt, shame, or fear associated with the id's impulses or the superego's standards. By using these defenses, individuals can maintain their self-esteem and navigate their emotional landscape without becoming overwhelmed by anxiety. Thus, the primary role of defense mechanisms in Freud's theory is their function in safeguarding the ego against overwhelming emotional experiences and maintaining psychological equilibrium.