Defense Mechanisms I (Narcissistic/Immmature)

Narcissistic Defenses

These mechanisms are the most primitive and seek to protect the primary narcissism.

Projection consists of attributing to another (who functions as a mirror) one's own impulses or desires that are not accepted, generating rejection towards that person.

Denial involves annulling or ignoring a painful reality ("that did not happen"). Distortion modifies the external reality to adapt it to internal needs, changing, for example, the memory of a traumatic event for a more acceptable one.

Immature Defenses

These defenses appear later and include Acting out (impulsive behavior), where tension is discharged by direct and explosive actions (hitting, shouting) rather than verbalized.

Blocking is a temporary inhibition of thought or memory in the face of anxiety ("going blank").

Regression involves a return to behaviors of earlier developmental stages (such as an adult throwing tantrums or thumb sucking) in stressful situations.

Introjection is the assumption of external beliefs or mandates as one's own truths without question.

Finally, Somatization converts unexpressed psychic energy into actual physical symptoms (pain, allergies).

Summary

Narcissistic defenses are primitive and protect primary narcissism. They include Projection, attributing one's own impulses to others, and Denial, whi