Although defence mechanisms distort reality, they also protect us from anxiety.

Question

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Defence mechanisms are psychological strategies that we use to protect ourselves from anxiety, unconscious conflicts, and other potentially distressing experiences. While they may distort reality, they also serve a vital function in reducing the amount of stress and anxiety we experience. By deflecting certain thoughts or feelings, we can avoid the discomfort and fear that may arise if we were to confront them directly. Therefore, defence mechanisms may be seen as maladaptive or immature responses to stress, but they can still serve an adaptive purpose in protecting us from excessive anxiety or emotional distress.

Although Defence Mechanisms Distort Reality, They Also Protect Us from Anxiety