Projection

Psychological projection is a psychological theory in which humans defend themselves against their own unpleasant impulses and emotions by denying their existence while attributing them to others. For example, a person who is habitually angry, but unable to acknowledge that anger, may constantly accuse other people of being angry as a means of disavowing that internal anger they feel. Projection was the basis for the development of projective questioning and projective techniques.

Related Terms

• Psychological defence mechanisms