defense mechanism: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Facts

Also Known As	ego-defense mechanism

Photos and Videos

Black and white portrait of Sigmund Freud, founder of psychoanalysis, seated and looking at the camera.

How the sensitive plant reacts to touch

See All Videos and Images →

Topics

projection reaction formation regression compensation rationalization identification denial transference sublimation repression drug use human sexual activity collective behavior humor Aggressive behaviour Social movement deviance conformity bystander effect Lying

Key People

Sigmund Freud

Sigmund Freud

Austrian neurologist

Anna Freud

Anna Freud

Austrian-British psychoanalyst