Defense mechanisms are ways people protect themselves from stress and anxiety during challenging situations. Sigmund Freud, a well-known psychologist, first explained it and identified several defense mechanisms. Some of the most common ones seen in clients include projection, denial, and displacement.
The Defense Mechanisms poster shows 12 common defense mechanisms clients use to cope with stress. These behaviors are usually unconscious and may prevent clients from achieving personal growth. Each behavior is clearly explained in simple terms, so users can become more aware of their reactions.
Displaying this poster in visible areas helps kids and teens increase self-awareness and make meaningful changes to their management of stress.
Caring adults can support this process by having discussions about these defense mechanisms and how they appear in real-life situations. They can also help kids identify the patterns they use most often.
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References:
- Faliova, O. (2022). The role of defence mechanisms in coping with stress in PTSD patients. Scientific Bulletin of Mukachevo State University Series “Pedagogy and Psychology”, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.52534/msu-pp.8(4).2022.18-25
- Silverman, J., & Aafjes-van Doorn, K. (2023). Coping and defense mechanisms: A scoping review. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 30(4), 381-392. https://doi.org/10.1037/cps0000139
- Bailey R, Pico J. Defense Mechanisms. [Updated 2023 May 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559106/
