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In psychology, introjection (also known as identification or internalization)[1] is the unconscious adoption of the thoughts or personality traits of others.[2] It occurs as a normal part of development, such as a child taking on parental values and attitudes. It can also be a defense mechanism in situations that arouse anxiety.[2] It has been associated with both normal and pathological development.[1]
- ^ a b Jaffe, Charles M. (24 August 2018). "Introjection in Psychoanalytic Couple and Family Therapy". Encyclopedia of Couple and Family Therapy. Springer, Cham. pp. 1–2. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-15877-8_12-1. ISBN 978-3-319-15877-8. S2CID 220278667.
- ^ a b "The American Psychological Association Dictionary of Psychology". www.apa.org. American Psychological Association. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
a process in which an individual unconsciously incorporates... the attitudes, values, and qualities of another person or a part of another person's personality. Introjection may occur, for example, in the mourning process for a loved one.