Level I (pathological)
Delusional projection: delusions about external reality, usually of a persecutory type; includes the perception of one's own feelings in others and then acting on the perception Denial: denial of external reality Distortion: reshaping external reality to accommodate inner needs
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Level II (immature)
Projection: attributing one's own feelings to others Schizoid fantasy: tendency to use fantasy to resolve conflict; may be associated with global avoidance of interpersonal intimacy Hypochondriasis: transformation of reproach or aggressive impulses toward others into complaints of pain and somatic illness Passive-aggressive behavior: indirect expression of aggression toward others through passivity and masochism Acting out: direct expression of an unconscious impulse or wish in order to avoid awareness of affect that accompanies it
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Level III (neurotic)
Intellectualization: thinking about instinctual wishes in affectively bland terms, paying attention to irrelevant detail to avoid expression of inner feelings Repression: an unconscious process in which the expression and perception of instincts and feelings are prevented Displacement: redirection of feelings toward a less cared for person or situation than those arousing feelings Reaction formation: enacting behavior or exhibiting affect that opposes an impulse Dissociation: temporary, drastic modification of personal identity to avoid emotional distress
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Level IV (mature)
Altruism: vicarious gratification of impulses through service to others Humor: expression of feelings without personal discomfort and unpleasant effect on others Suppression: conscious diversion of attention from conflict Anticipation: goal-directed planning for future inner discomfort Sublimation: modification and direction of acknowledged impulses toward more appropriate activities
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