What function do defense mechanisms serve in Freud’s theory?

In Freud's theory, defense mechanisms play a crucial role in protecting the individual from anxiety and internal conflicts. These mechanisms are unconscious processes that the ego employs to manage feelings of distress and to mitigate the impact of internal and external stressors. When individuals face uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, or experiences that threaten their psychological well-being, defense mechanisms can distort or deny reality to prevent overwhelming anxiety.

For example, mechanisms such as repression push distressing thoughts into the unconscious, while projection might involve attributing one's own unacceptable feelings or thoughts onto others. These actions help individuals cope with difficult emotions or situations, allowing them to maintain psychological equilibrium. Consequently, the primary function of defense mechanisms is to safeguard the individual from emotional turmoil and preserve a sense of stability in their mental state.