displacement

n. A defense mechanism whereby unwanted emotions are redirected to a "safer" recipient. For example, Erica may be very angry with her boss after being mistreated for several days. Instead of directing this anger at her boss (because there may be negative repercussions), she takes out her frustration on her partner. Unconsciously the anger is given a less dangerous outlet. As with most defense mechanisms, this process is unconscious; the individual has no idea that the emotion is being redirected. In the given example, Erica only experiences anger at her partner; she is unaware that her expression of frustration is meant for her boss.

- DGa