defense mechanism

n. In psychoanalysis, any of a number of strategies the ego employs to prevent the energy of an unfulfilled desire from disrupting its plans. It usually involves repression of the desire and a redirection of the energy. In reaction formation the energy is directed into proclaiming and acting as if one's self wish were the opposite of the desire. In sublimation the energy is directed into work or other activity having no obvious resemblance to the original desire or its object. In repression the desire and its object are simply pushed into the unconscious and expression of the energy is delayed. In displacement the energy is redirected to an object acceptable to the ego's plans.