defence reaction

• Physiologische oder psychologische Reaktion auf eine wahrgenommene Bedrohung, die dem Schutz des Organismus oder der Person vor Schaden dient. In der Biologie die Reaktion des Immunsystems auf Krankheitserreger; in der Psychologie die unbewussten Mechanismen, die die Psyche vor Angst oder Stress schützen.

A physiological or psychological response triggered by a perceived threat, designed to protect an organism or individual from harm. In biology, it refers to the immune system's response to pathogens; in psychology, it refers to unconscious mechanisms that protect the mind from anxiety or stress.

1. Biological immune responseB2formal

   The body's automatic response to protect itself from harmful pathogens, injuries, or threats.

   Abwehrreaktion

   • A fever is a common defence reaction against infection.
   • The immune system triggers a defence reaction when it detects a virus.
   • Allergies are an overactive defence reaction to harmless substances.

2. Psychological coping mechanismC1formal

   An unconscious mental process used to protect oneself from anxiety, stress, or unacceptable thoughts.

   Psychischer Abwehrmechanismus

   • Denial is a common defence reaction to bad news.
   • His sarcasm was a defence reaction to feeling vulnerable.
   • Projection is a defence reaction where one attributes their own feelings to others.