![]() | It has been suggested that portions of Internalization (sociology) be split from it and merged into this article. (Discuss) (November 2023) |
In psychology, introjection (also known as identification or internalization)[1] is the unconscious adoption of the thoughts or personality traits of others.[2] It occurs as a normal part of development, such as a child taking on parental values and attitudes. It can also be a defense mechanism in situations that arouse anxiety.[2] It has been associated with both normal and pathological development.[1]
a process in which an individual unconsciously incorporates... the attitudes, values, and qualities of another person or a part of another person's personality. Introjection may occur, for example, in the mourning process for a loved one.