The process of integrating the beliefs or standards of others into one's own value system is called which defense mechanism?

• A. Denial
• B. Regression
• C. Introjection
• D. Sublimation

Answer: (C)

Introjection is a defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously absorbs the beliefs, values, or standards of others and treats them as their own. This helps align the self with external authority, making it easier to behave in ways that fit social expectations. For example, a child might adopt a parent's moral code as their own, or someone might internalize their culture’s norms and adopt them as personal standards. This differs from denial, which is refusing to acknowledge reality; regression, which is reverting to earlier developmental behaviors under stress; and sublimation, which redirects unacceptable impulses into constructive, unrelated activities. The key idea is the internalization of someone else’s standards as part of one’s own value system.