Denial
When we use denial , we refuse to accept that certain facts exist. This is more
than saying we do not remember, as in repression. Rather, we insist that
something is not true despite all evidence to the contrary. A widower who
loved his wife deeply may act as if she were still alive long after her death.
He may set a place for her at the table or tell friends that she is just away
visiting a relative. To the widower, this charade is more acceptable than ad-
mitting consciously that his wife has died. Obviously, denial is an extremeform of defense. The more we use it, the less in touch with reality we are
and the more difficulty we have functioning. Nonetheless, in some cases the
ego will resort to denial rather than allow certain thoughts to reachconsciousness.
Reaction Formation
When using reaction formation , we hide from a threatening unconscious idea
or urge by acting in a manner opposite to our unconscious desires. Thus, ayoung woman who constantly tells people how much she loves her mothercould be masking strong unconscious hatred for the mother. People who mil-
itantly get involved with antipornography crusades may hold a strong uncon-
scious interest in pornography. It is as if the thought is so unacceptable that
According to Freud, participation in aggressive sports allows the expression of uncon-
scious aggressive impulses in a socially acceptable manner. Football players might beengaging in sublimation with each tackle.Photo by Marlene Somsak48 CHAPTER 3 The Psychoanalyt ic Approach