wegdrukken

Wegdrukken is a Dutch term that translates to "pushing away" or "suppressing" in English. It refers to the act of consciously or unconsciously preventing certain thoughts, feelings, or memories from entering one's awareness. This psychological defense mechanism can be employed when individuals find certain internal experiences to be unpleasant, threatening, or overwhelming.

The process of wegdrukken can manifest in various ways. It might involve actively distracting oneself from intrusive thoughts, avoiding situations that trigger difficult emotions, or rationalizing away uncomfortable feelings. While wegdrukken can provide temporary relief from distress, it is often considered an unhealthy coping strategy in the long term. The suppressed material may continue to influence behavior and emotional well-being, potentially leading to increased anxiety, stress, or even physical symptoms.

Psychological theories suggest that wegdrukken can hinder personal growth and self-understanding, as it prevents individuals from processing and integrating challenging experiences. In therapeutic contexts, exploring and understanding the underlying reasons for wegdrukken is often a key component in addressing mental health concerns. The goal is to help individuals develop more adaptive coping mechanisms that allow for the acknowledgment and processing of all internal experiences, rather than their suppression.