defense mechanism

• Estratégia psicológica usada inconscientemente para proteger a pessoa da ansiedade, de conflitos emocionais ou de pensamentos inaceitáveis; também se refere a qualquer processo biológico ou físico que protege o organismo de danos.

A psychological strategy used unconsciously to protect oneself from anxiety, emotional conflict, or unacceptable thoughts; also refers to a biological or physical process that protects an organism from harm.

1. Psychological defense mechanismB2formal

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

   Mecanismo de defesa

   • Denial is a common defense mechanism after a traumatic event.
   • He used humor as a defense mechanism to avoid discussing his feelings.
   • 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 predators or disease.

   Mecanismo de defesa biológico

   • The porcupine's quills are a natural defense mechanism.
   • The immune system is the body's primary defense mechanism against infections.
   • Some plants release toxins as a defense mechanism against herbivores.