Projection in Psychology is a type of defense mechanism that people use subconsciously to cope with difficult emotions. It can be defined as projecting unwanted feelings and desires onto others instead of accepting or dealing with them.
The theory of psychological projection was first developed by Sigmund Freud, who is referred to as the "father of psychoanalysis." For this reason, it is sometimes called Freudian projection. Freud noticed that while conducting sessions with his patients, they would sometimes accuse others of having the same feelings they themselves possessed. This behavior allowed individuals to cope better with the emotions they found difficult to accept.
The tendency to project fundamentally manifests itself in two different ways:
* Blaming others for the shortcomings that arise from one's own incompetence and deficiencies
* Attributing generally disapproved, unwanted feelings, desires, and behaviors to others
Individuals who can accept their failures and weaknesses and are comfortable thinking about the good, bad, and ugly aspects of themselves are not inclined to project. They do not feel the need to do so because they can tolerate recognizing or experiencing their own negativity.
Instead of accepting a negative emotion or a desire that would not be accepted by society, everyone can sometimes engage in projection to escape from its existence. However, making this attitude a life principle or using it to oppress, intimidate, or belittle others is interpreted as a behavioral disorder or a psychological problem in psychology.
A classic example of Freudian projection is a woman who cheats on her husband but accuses him of being unfaithful to her. Another example of projection is a married man who accuses a female coworker of flirting with him while he is actually interested in her. The one who has this desire is himself, but since the desire is inappropriate, he subconsciously turns it into the woman's desire.
Another example could be someone who feels an urge to steal and then projects these feelings onto others. This person may start to fear that their wallet will be stolen, that their neighbors will break into their home and steal something, or that they will be given insufficient change when they buy something. Since they feel the desire to do such things, they think others will be the same. Thus, they do not feel like the only person who wants unacceptable, inappropriate things.
Projection in psychology does not always occur in such dramatic or easily identifiable situations. It can manifest in different ways; for example, in situations where a person struggles to interact politely with someone they dislike. To give an example:
A woman begins to get angry at her sister-in-law for being too close to her husband. She knows she should treat her well for her husband's sake. However, over time, she starts to realize that her sister-in-law does not like her either. During a family gathering, especially when her husband is in the room, she thinks her sister-in-law behaves sharply and harshly towards her. She tells her husband that she is doing her best to maintain a good relationship with his sister, but the reason she dislikes her sister-in-law is that she feels her sister-in-law does not like her.
Thus, the woman projects her feelings of dislike and anger towards her sister-in-law. She struggles to accept the reality that she is angry with her husband's sister. Perhaps she feels guilty for being jealous of the time her husband spends with her or is worried that her feelings will be noticed by other family members and that they will think badly of her. Instead of facing her dissatisfaction and anger alone, she attributes these feelings to her sister-in-law, thus creating a more acceptable justification for disliking her.
Projection, which is among the psychological defense mechanisms, is not a healthy way to cope with emotions, but for some people, it is a habit that is hard to give up. There are many types of projection. This attitude is not only about attributing disliked feelings and thoughts to another person. Sometimes, to feel better about ourselves, we create negative stories about others. For example, we might think that a quiet, introverted coworker is actually a conceited snob who does not like us for that reason.
Another example of projection in psychology is when a person idealizes the qualities they want their beloved to possess and places them on a pedestal. In this case, an unwanted behavior from your partner can lead to a significant disappointment. Even if there is nothing major, you may start to think that they are not as perfect as you thought. However, you have attributed some qualities to them that make them perfect for you. Because someone you love must possess those qualities.
Projection as a Narcissistic Personality Trait
According to recent research, psychological projection can sometimes manifest as a narcissistic personality trait. Narcissistic individuals have little tolerance for the idea that they may have a flaw, deficiency, or fault. Therefore, they tend to project their own mistakes onto others. This attitude is interpreted as a serious behavioral disorder.
A narcissistic person often claims that the disapproved, unpleasant, and guilt-inducing behaviors they exhibit are present in the other person. After all, they are a perfect person, and it is impossible for them to make the mistakes that ordinary people do. Underneath this claim of perfection often lie insecurities and complexes.
Narcissistic individuals are aware of the difference between right and wrong but are closed off to the idea that the rules apply to them as well. Their world is built around their ego, and to protect this world, they can easily shift the blame onto others.
If you think you have a tendency to project, try to focus on why you do it. Reviewing your true feelings about yourself, especially your weaknesses, can be a good starting point. Reflect on your behaviors and try to determine whether you blame others for things you do or attribute negative traits to others incorrectly. Taking notes on this may be helpful.
Once you acknowledge that you are projecting, you will become more aware of this tendency when interacting with others. Instead of becoming defensive, try to confront problems and disagreements. The important thing is to understand when you are using a defense mechanism and to try to learn to respond more positively.
In some cases, consulting a therapist can help you address these issues more openly and honestly than you could on your own.
Psychology and Mental Health
