The Role of Interpersonal Problem Solving in Using the Immature Defense Mechanisms in Adolescents

Ahmet Bedel

doi:10.11144/javeriana.upsy18-5.rips

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine associations between interpersonal problem solving and immature defense mechanisms in addition to whether interpersonal problem solving are predictors of immature defense mechanisms. The participants of the study consists of 428 high schools students (184 of the students were females). Interpersonal Problem Solving Inventory and Defense Style Questionnaire were applied. Results of multiple regression analyses indicated that all variables of interpersonal problem solving skills together accounted for 32% of the variance in defense mechanisms. Specifically, significant predictors of immature defense mechanisms levels were lack of self-confidence, negative approach to the problems, constructive problem solving respectively. Generally, the levels of adolescents resort to immature defense mechanisms, lack of self-confidence and negative approach to the problem of the increase, a decrease in constructive problem-solving skills are seen to be effective. The results of the study was discussd within the results of the previous studies.

Highlights

The purpose of this study was to examine associations between interpersonal problem solving and immature defense mechanisms in addition to whether interpersonal problem solving are predictors of immature defense mechanisms
As relevant Beta values are examined it surfaces that the strongest predictor of immature defense style is lack of self-confidence (b = 0.314) ensued by negative orientation to the problem (b =0.275) and a constructive problem solving (b = -0.238) variables
It was concluded that there is no significant relationship between the dimensions of unwilling to take responsibility and of insistent-persevering approaches of interpersonal problem-solving and immature defense form

Summary

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to examine associations between interpersonal problem solving and immature defense mechanisms in addition to whether interpersonal problem solving are predictors of immature defense mechanisms. The levels of adolescents resort to immature defense mechanisms, lack of self-confidence and negative approach to the problem of the increase, a decrease in constructive problem-solving skills are seen to be effective. Some studies revealed that having problem solving skill has an effect on decrease in aggression, anger, hostility (Seçer & Ogelman, 2011) and in negative behaviors (Bushman & Peacock, 2010), and on increase in social self-efficacy (Erözkan, 2013), positive emotion (D'Zurilla, Maydeu-Olivares, & Pujol, 2011) and interpersonal relationships (Joseph & Strain, 2010; Sumi, 2012). The purpose of the social problem solving model is to gain functional coping skill to individuals by increasing their positive approaches to the problems they face, and decreasing their negative approaches and, avoidant and careless problem solving skills (Nezu, D’Zurilla, & Nezu, 2012). While social problem solving skill is one of the ways of conscious coping with stress and anxious in life, defense mechanisms are defined as unconscious way of coping with those

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Conclusion