defence mechanism

noun

1. psychoanal a usually unconscious mental process designed to reduce the anxiety, shame, etc, associated with instinctive desires

2. physiol the protective response of the body against disease organisms

Example Sentences

This kind of constant self-editing, Ms Kean explains, may act as a defence mechanism to avoid being seen as abrasive or overly assertive.

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Experts have since debated whether Stockholm syndrome is an actual psychiatric condition, with some arguing it is a defence mechanism to cope with traumatic situations.

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"The defence mechanisms you put in are absolutely critical."

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Humour can be a highly adapted defence mechanism, she says, which can make comedians more opaque than other contestants.

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"This finding helps us to better understand how the body maintains a balance between cell protection and defence mechanisms. This could open up new avenues for the treatment of inflammatory diseases."

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