Today the goal is to start discussing the “mature “ego defense mechanisms. There are 8 defined. I have given you the official definitions of them before, so today I will discuss them in a more relatable, pragmatic way and give my take on them, and when possible, present a more honest alternative.

I am not going to go through all of the list today, however, I will attempt to present the strategies that seemingly complement, along with some deemed the “Neurotic” ego defense mechanisms.

Once again, please be aware of phrasing. Some phrases I use interchangeably during this talk. They are: Ego defenses - defense strategies - coping skills – ego defense mechanisms- which all refer to techniques used to dispel cognitive dissonance.

In addition, when I refer to “stressors” – please know that this means internal and external stress producing situations, as well as emotional conflict they elicit.

Today’s Quote:

“ Self-preservation and self-development are common aspirations among all people. And if everyone enjoyed the unrestricted use of his faculties and the free disposition of the fruits of his labor, social progress would be ceaseless, uninterrupted, and unfailing.

But there is also another tendency that is common among people. When they can, they wish to live and prosper at the expense of others. This is no rash accusation. Nor does it come from a gloomy and uncharitable spirit. The annals of history bear witness to the truth of it: the incessant wars, mass migrations, religious persecutions, universal slavery, dishonesty in commerce, and monopolies. This fatal desire has its origin in the very nature of man — in that primitive, universal, and insuppressible instinct that impels him to satisfy his desires with the least possible pain ~~~ Frédéric Bastiat, The Law

I thought this quote was applicable here despite seeming to be out of left field. It made me wonder if the ego defenses are just another way to justify ourselves as we pursue inherent aspirational goals as articulated above.