The 12 Most Common Defense Mechanisms

Regression

Regression is a form of ego defense mechanism where a person would psychologically regress to a previous stage of development in order to try and cope with a stressor. An inconsolable woman after a really bad break up, or maybe a business man throwing a tantrum after an unsuccessful business deal are great examples of this type of defense mechanism. This type of defense mechanism allows the expression of the emotion by the person. But depending on the grief, this would be spontaneous. And as such, sometimes it might not be viewed as socially acceptable by some.