Denial as a Defense Mechanism in Coping with Overwhelming Emotions and Circumstances

Defence Mechanism: Denial

Refusal to accept external reality because it is to threatening. It is the refusal the acknowledge what has happened.

Denial is a defense mechanism that involves a person’s refusal to accept reality or acknowledge a problem or conflict that they are facing. It is a way of protecting oneself from the unpleasantness of a situation by rejecting or minimizing its significance.

For example, a person who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness may refuse to accept the diagnosis, insisting that the doctors are wrong or that they feel fine. They may also refuse to discuss the possibility of death, as it is too painful to face.

Denial can be a helpful defense mechanism in some situations, allowing a person to cope with overwhelming emotions or circumstances. However, it can also be harmful if used excessively or persistently, as it can prevent a person from seeking help or dealing with the underlying issue.

Therapy can help address denial as a defense mechanism by encouraging the person to acknowledge and accept their feelings and circumstances, and to develop more adaptive coping strategies.

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