Psychometric Features

Abstract

The current approach to studying defense mechanisms is the outcome of a continuing interest in children’s use of defenses as part of normal development. In an earlier attempt to study children’s defenses, a more controlled test format was developed in which children were presented with video vignettes depicting situations of frustration (Cramer, 1983).¹ After they viewed the vignette, the children were asked how they would react in such a situation and were provided with preestablished defense alternatives with which to respond. Although this method produced meaningful results and had certain psychometric advantages, in the end of the information obtained seemed too restricted to adequately represent the psychological life of children and adults.

The greatest difficulty that has beset students of defense mechanisms has been consensual validation and interrater reliability .... Unless the observer believes in a dynamic unconscious, he is unlikely to perceive defenses at all .... Clinical acumen is essential to discovery.

Vaillant, 1971, p. 115