INTROJECTION Meaning and
Definition
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Introjection is a psychological concept that refers to the unconscious process of internalizing or incorporating outside objects, ideas, or beliefs into one's own personal identity. It is the mechanism by which an individual takes in and assimilates external experiences or qualities, often without critical evaluation or analysis.
In the realm of psychoanalysis, introjection plays a crucial role in the formation of an individual's self-concept and ego. It occurs when an individual unconsciously takes on characteristics, attitudes, or values of significant others, such as parents, caregivers, or authority figures. These internalized aspects become part of the individual's own psyche, essentially shaping their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Introjection can be both adaptive and maladaptive. In healthy development, introjection helps children acquire social skills, morals, and values from their parents or primary caregivers. However, when experienced in excess or in a distorted manner, introjection can lead to difficulties in self-expression, autonomy, and individuation. It can give rise to a rigid adherence to societal norms, internalized criticism, or self-blame.
Understanding introjection is essential in therapy and self-reflection as it allows individuals to identify and challenge the beliefs or values they have unknowingly internalized. By becoming aware of introjected elements in their personality, individuals can work towards differentiation, self-acceptance, and the adoption of their own authentic beliefs and values.
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The appropriation of an external happening and its assimilation by the personality, making it a part of the self.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INTROJECTION
- untrojection
- jntrojection
- kntrojection
- ontrojection
- 9ntrojection
- 8ntrojection
- ibtrojection
- imtrojection
- ijtrojection
- ihtrojection
- inrrojection
- infrojection
- ingrojection
- inyrojection
- in6rojection
- in5rojection
- inteojection
- intdojection
- intfojection
Etymology of INTROJECTION
The word "introjection" is derived from the combination of two root words: "intro" and "jection".
The prefix "intro-" comes from the Latin word "intro", which means "within" or "into". It implies going inward or into something.
The word "jection" comes from the Latin root "jectio", which means "a throwing" or "a casting". It is derived from the verb "jacere", which means "to throw" or "to cast".
When combined, the word "introjection" refers to the psychological process of mentally incorporating external objects, qualities, or aspects of other people into one’s own identity or self-perception.
Similar spelling words for INTROJECTION
- interoceptor,
- introduction,
- intersecting,
- introspect,
- introject,
- intersection,
- intromission,
- introspection,
- interoception,
- introvertish,
- interjection,
- introvertive,
- introversion,
- introjected,
- interject,
- indirection,
- introspective.
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