Introjection (Noun)
Meaning 1
(psychology) unconscious internalization of aspects of the world (especially aspects of persons) within the self in such a way that the internalized representation takes over the psychological functions of the external objects.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The process of introjection allowed the child to internalize her mother's voice, providing her with a guiding sense of comfort even in her mother's absence.
- As the therapist delved deeper into the patient's psyche, she began to uncover the introjection of his father's harsh criticisms, which were now wreaking havoc on his self-esteem.
- Through the psychoanalytic lens, introjection is seen as a vital mechanism for identity formation and psychic development in early childhood.
- Unconsciously, she had introjected her grandmother's strong-willed personality, now using it as a source of motivation in times of uncertainty.
- The patient struggled to reconcile his internalized introjection of his ex-partner's negative opinions with his desire to form new, healthier relationships.
Hypernyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
(psychoanalysis) the internalization of the parent figures and their values; leads to the formation of the superego.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The process of introjection allows children to internalize moral principles and values from their parents, eventually shaping their own superego.
- Through introjection, individuals learn to obey societal rules and norms, as these concepts become an integral part of their internal conscience.
- According to psychoanalytic theory, introjection occurs during childhood when a person begins to replace parental guidance with an internalized moral authority.
- Freud believed that introjection of parental authority played a crucial role in the development of an individual's sense of guilt and shame.
- Multiple defense mechanisms emerge through the process of introjection, as it forms the foundation of the superego and influences how people make moral judgments and decisions.