Which defense mechanism involves pushing unwanted thoughts into the unconscious?

The defense mechanism that involves pushing unwanted thoughts into the unconscious is repression. Repression is a psychological strategy where an individual unconsciously blocks out painful or anxiety-provoking thoughts, memories, or feelings from their conscious awareness. This process serves as a protective function, helping the person cope with overwhelming emotions or thoughts by keeping them out of conscious thought.

For example, someone who experienced a traumatic event might repress memories of that event, making it difficult for them to recall the details or even acknowledge that it occurred. By keeping these memories inaccessible, the individual may avoid the distress associated with them, although this can result in other psychological issues if the repressed material influences behavior or emotions in unintended ways.

This understanding of repression clarifies why it is distinct from other defense mechanisms. Denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts, projecting personal feelings or thoughts onto others, and rationalization consists of justifying behaviors or thoughts with seemingly logical reasons while ignoring the true motivations. Each of these mechanisms operates differently, but repression specifically deals with the unconscious storage of unwanted thoughts or memories.