Internally Directed Arms

Caution. This article/definition is in draft form and at this time may constitute no more than rough notes, reminders for required content, or absolutely nothing at all. Content is subject to revision.

Related Terms

Defence Mechanisms, Disjuncture

Notes

   • Dissociation – detachment from reality. Disconnection, especially emotional.1 Daydreaming. Dissociative disorders. Typically used in an attempt to avoid stress/pain/conflict in the environment.
   • Diversion/Distraction – engaging in other activities, behaviours that allow one draw attention away from feelings. For example, getting into a running club and spending your entire time running. Includes obsessions, compulsions, hypochondriasis, etc.
   • Repression – forced submersion of thoughts (I am doing something wrong) and feelings, like guilt, shame, etc. For the equivalent internal ARM, see Denial.
   • Regression – fall back to childhood states, allowing only simpler, childlike emotions and awareness.
   • Projection – projecting guilt, shame, other negative emotions and thoughts onto others. 
   • Reaction formation – choreographing the opposite emotions. Denial. 

Footnotes

References