DEFENSE MECHANISMS AND SELF-DECEPTION: THE RELATIONSHIP AND ROLE IN ADAPTATION TO STRESSFUL SITUATIONS

Abstract

The article is devoted to a theoretical and empirical analysis of the relationship between psychological defense mechanisms and self-deception, and the determination of their role in personality adaptation to stressful situations. The relevance of this problem is due to the rising stress levels in modern society and the need for effective psychological means to maintain individual resilience. The theoretical section examines the evolution of the concept of psychological defense from classical psychoanalytic concepts to modern approaches. It is shown that defense mechanisms operate unconsciously, distorting reality to reduce anxiety, essentially acting as a form of self–deception. Self–deception is interpreted as an unconscious cognitive distortion aimed at mitigating traumatic experiences and preserving a positive self– concept. The dual role of these phenomena in adaptation is highlighted: on the one hand, they serve as a buffer against stress and help maintain emotional balance; on the other hand, excessive distortion of reality can lead to maladaptation. In the empirical study (sample: 54 young adults), standardized methods were used: the Holmes–Rahe Life Stress Scale, Spielberger’s Anxiety Inventory, a self–deception questionnaire, and the Defense Style Questionnaire (DSQ). It was found that most respondents are characterized by moderate levels of stress and anxiety and a predominance of mature defense mechanisms combined with low–moderate self–deception. At the same time, higher anxiety correlates with increased self–deception and activation of immature defenses, indicating a maladaptive nature of such responses. Self–deception showed the strongest association with primitive defenses, playing a compensatory role when adaptive coping strategies are lacking. It is concluded that a balance between the protective function and realistic awareness of the situation is necessary as a condition for effective adaptation to stress.