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Displacement

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This is the transfer of emotion away from the correct person, object or experience to a substitute in order to reduce distress.

For example:

  • a man may feel guilty following the death of an neglected elderly parent
  • this emotion is too distressing and is not recognised
  • a displacement defense mechanism might result in the son casting blame on the doctors who cared for her

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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