escape mechanism

American  

noun

Psychology.

1. a means of avoiding an unpleasant life situation, as daydreaming.

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escape mechanism British  

noun

1. psychol any emotional or mental mechanism that enables a person to avoid acknowledging unpleasant or threatening realities See also escapism

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Etymology

Origin of escape mechanism

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

So how do the lizards activate their escape mechanism when needed?

From Science Magazine

This magical escape mechanism helps you brace for the discomfort of, say, an inevitable murder, awkward dialogue or the horrifying extracurricular activities of “Euphoria’s” troubled teens.

From Washington Post

"It was my escape mechanism," she told the programme.

From BBC

They need that escape mechanism from how harsh life can be.”

From The Guardian

"It's not an aggressive attack, it's an escape mechanism," explains Shears.

From BBC