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Further distinctions between coping and defense mechanisms?
1Institute of Psychology, National Research Council of Italy. maria@pscs2.irmkant.rm.cnr.it
Journal of Personality
|May 8, 2001
Summary
This study clarifies the difference between coping and defense mechanisms by introducing a new criterion: manipulation versus revision of mental attitudes. Defense mechanisms manipulate, while coping strategies revise attitudes, especially in emotion-focused coping.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Significant confusion exists in scientific literature differentiating coping mechanisms and defense mechanisms.
- Previous research, like Cramer (1998), highlighted cognitive differences based on consciousness and intentionality.
- A key criterion, manipulation versus revision of mental attitudes, has been under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To distinguish between coping and defense mechanisms using a novel cognitive criterion.
- To clarify the role of mental attitude manipulation versus revision in psychological responses.
- To refine the definition of coping strategies, particularly emotion-focused coping.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual analysis of psychological defense and coping theories.
- Introduction of a new criterion: manipulation vs. revision of mental attitudes.
- Examination of emotion-focused coping in relation to defense mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Defense mechanisms are characterized by the manipulation of mental attitudes.
- Coping strategies are identified by the revision of mental attitudes.
- Emotion-focused coping represents an intersection, but responses with defensive features should be excluded from coping.
Conclusions:
- A clear distinction between coping and defense mechanisms is possible and valuable.
- The manipulation/revision criterion offers a new framework for understanding these psychological processes.
- Refined definitions enhance the study of emotion-focused coping and psychological resilience.
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