defence mechanism

• Stratégie psychologique ou processus mental automatique utilisé par la psyché pour se protéger contre l'anxiété, le stress ou les pensées et sentiments inacceptables.

A psychological strategy or automatic mental process used by the mind to protect itself from anxiety, stress, or unacceptable thoughts and feelings.

1. Psychological defense mechanismB2formal

   An unconscious mental process that protects a person from anxiety, guilt, or unacceptable thoughts.

   mécanisme de défense

   • Denial is a common defense mechanism after a traumatic event.
   • He uses humor as a defense mechanism to avoid serious conversations.
   • Projection is a defense mechanism where one attributes their own feelings to others.

2. Biological defense mechanismB2formal

   A physical or chemical process in an organism that protects it from harm, such as infection or injury.

   mécanisme de défense biologique

   • The immune system is the body's primary defense mechanism against pathogens.
   • A fever is a natural defense mechanism that helps fight infection.
   • The plant's thorns are a defense mechanism against herbivores.