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Push back

Last updated on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

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In the context of psychoanalysis, "push back" refers to the resistance or defense mechanisms individuals employ to protect themselves from confronting uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, or memories during therapy. This can manifest as avoidance, denial, or other strategies that hinder the exploration of deep-seated issues and hinder the therapeutic process.

The Concept of Push Back in Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis, a field rooted in understanding the complexities of the human mind, delves into various defense mechanisms that individuals employ on a subconscious level. One such concept within psychoanalytic theory is "push back," which plays a significant role in how individuals protect themselves from undesirable thoughts, emotions, or memories.

What is Push Back?

Push back, also known as psychological resistance, refers to the unconscious efforts made by individuals to block or impede the process of psychoanalysis. When individuals face uncomfortable or distressing thoughts during therapy, they may exhibit push back as a defense mechanism to avoid facing these challenging aspects of themselves.

Understanding the Mechanisms of Push Back

In psychoanalysis, push back can manifest in various forms, such as:

Denial: Individuals may deny the existence of certain thoughts or emotions, refusing to acknowledge them as a way to protect themselves from discomfort.
Resistance: Clients may resist the insights offered by the therapist, putting up barriers that hinder the therapeutic process.
Projection: People may project their own undesirable thoughts or feelings onto others, displacing the source of discomfort.

Addressing Push Back in Therapy

Psychoanalysts are trained to recognize and work through push back in therapy sessions. By gently guiding individuals to explore the underlying reasons for their resistance, therapists can help clients move past their defense mechanisms and delve deeper into the root causes of their psychological distress.

By understanding the concept of push back and how it functions within the context of psychoanalysis, individuals can gain valuable insights into their own subconscious processes and work towards a more profound understanding of themselves.

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