Theoretical and methodological analysis of the state of research on the problem of mental protection of the individual

Abstract

The article presents a theoretical and methodological analysis of the state of research on the problem of psychological protection of the individual. It is noted that the system of psychological protection is formed in the general structure of personality as a certain combination of protective mechanisms. As a result of the action of defence mechanisms, a specific state of consciousness is formed, which allows the individual to maintain the harmony and balance of it`s structure. Today, most researchers consider mental defence mechanisms to be processes of personal intrapsychic adaptation that occur under the influence of subconscious processing of incoming information. To date, a great deal of material has been accumulated on this issue, in which the following points can be distinguished. First, it is the complexity of the functioning of defence mechanisms. Individuals rarely use a single defence mechanism - they usually use a complex of defence mechanisms. This complex is specific to each individual and is formed early enough in genesis. Second, there is a positive effect of defence mechanisms on personality development. Defence mechanisms are quite dynamic in themselves: through their development, integration and adaptation of the individual takes place. This is their positive influence on personality formation. Thus, defence mechanisms are widely present both in normal, healthy psychological functioning of the individual and in unhealthy, pathological ones. Their effect can be detected in every person. The third point concerns the function of defence mechanisms. They are used by an individual to relieve or prevent anxiety, to resolve emotional conflicts, to resist emotional discomfort, to prevent a return to thoughts, emotions, desires, fantasies that have previously been pushed out of consciousness because of their painfulness and unacceptability. Fourthly, mental regulation in difficult situations for the subject with the help of defence mechanisms usually occurs at the unconscious level.