The purpose of a defense mechanism is to

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The purpose of defense mechanisms, according to psychoanalytic theory, is to protect ourselves against anxiety and maintain self-esteem. Defense mechanisms are unconscious mental processes that help us to avoid or alleviate the painful or threatening emotions, thoughts, or behaviors that arise from conflicts between our conscious desires and our unconscious impulses or fears. By repressing or denying these inner conflicts, we can maintain a sense of psychological equilibrium, even if it means sacrificing our authenticity or our ability to cope effectively with reality.

The Purpose of a Defense Mechanism Is to