title: Conceptualizing defense mechanisms from drive theory and object relations perspectives.
abstract: Analyzing common defensive features from dual theoretical perspectives, repression is postulated as the underlying mechanism, and is differentiated from denial and suppression. Acting out and intrapunitiveness are interpreted as polar options within displacement. Drive theory and object relations implications are outlined in the conceptualization of intellectualization, reaction formation, and projection, particularly as they are elaborated by basic tenets in defense theory.
authors.affiliation: Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, NY, USA.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Juni
mesh_terms: D000184:Acting Out; D002965:Classification; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D004208:Displacement, Psychological; D004328:Drive; D006167:Guilt; D006801:Humans; D009497:Neurotic Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology; D009769:Object Attachment; D011385:Projection; D011574:Psychoanalytic Theory; D011908:Rationalization; D012094:Repression, Psychology; D009626:Terminology as Topic