Psychological resistance

Psychological resistance (pronunciation: psy·cho·log·i·cal re·sis·tance) is a concept in psychotherapy and psychology that refers to an individual's opposition to the process of self-discovery and personal growth.

Etymology

The term "psychological resistance" is derived from the field of psychology, where "psychological" pertains to the mind or mental processes, and "resistance" signifies opposition or impediment.

Definition

Psychological resistance is a phenomenon often encountered in psychotherapy where a patient may unconsciously resist the therapeutic process because it may lead to uncomfortable emotions, thoughts, or memories. This resistance can take many forms, including denial, projection, rationalization, and others.

Related Terms

Denial: A psychological defense mechanism where a person refuses to accept reality or facts, acting as if a painful event, thought, or feeling did not exist.
Projection: A defense mechanism individuals employ to avoid the discomfort and anxiety associated with recognizing personal faults by attributing them to others.
Rationalization: A defense mechanism that involves explaining an unacceptable behavior or feeling in a rational or logical manner, avoiding the true reasons for the behavior.
Psychotherapy: A general term referring to therapeutic interaction or treatment contracted between a trained professional and a patient, family, couple, or group.
Psychology: The scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a given context.

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Psychological resistance